What began as an afternoon outing for a Calgary family turned tragic when a nine-year-old child drowned in the Shuswap River at W.J. Tuey Regional Park in Enderby on Monday, August 3.
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP responded to the scene at approximately 2:45 p.m. after family members lost sight of the child near Waterwheel Street. The child had gone under water and failed to surface, prompting an immediate search effort.
What followed was a display of community courage. Multiple bystanders sprang into action, searching the moving water where the child had disappeared. One heroic bystander managed to locate the submerged child, who had become pinned against fallen deadwood by the river's current.
The child was retrieved from the water and brought to shore, where medical professionals among the bystanders—including a doctor and nurses—immediately began CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive.
"This tragic incident highlights the dangers surrounding all bodies of water," said RCMP Cpl. Tania Finn. "Ensure personal flotation devices and extra care are used, especially around moving water, as there is an increased risk associated with downed branches and other obstacles."
BC Ambulance Service transported the child to hospital in critical condition. While authorities estimate the child may have been submerged for approximately five to 10 minutes, the exact duration remains unknown.
The RCMP has confirmed that no criminality is suspected in connection with the incident. Victim Services are currently supporting the family during this devastating time.
This article is based on reporting from the Red Deer Advocate.