In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken a local British Columbia community, a 29-year-old man drowned Sunday afternoon while swimming with his fiancée in Cultus Lake, authorities confirmed. The tragedy unfolded during what began as a perfect summer day at one of the province’s most popular recreational destinations.
According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, emergency services responded to frantic calls from beachgoers shortly after 2:30 p.m. Witnesses reported seeing the man struggle approximately 40 meters from shore before disappearing beneath the surface.
“He was swimming with his fiancée when he suddenly appeared to be in distress,” said RCMP Sergeant Melanie Thompson. “Despite immediate efforts from bystanders and his partner to reach him, they were unable to get to him in time.”
Among those who attempted rescue was Timothy Redmond, an off-duty paramedic who happened to be at the lake with his family. “I heard screaming and saw people pointing toward the water,” Redmond told CO24 News. “Several of us swam out, but the water was surprisingly cold, and visibility was poor. It was devastating not to find him.”
Local search and rescue teams recovered the man’s body approximately two hours later. Authorities have not released his name pending notification of extended family members, but confirmed he was a Vancouver resident who had recently become engaged.
The drowning comes as Canada faces increasing concerns about water safety. The Lifesaving Society of British Columbia reports this is the third drowning death in the province’s lakes this month alone, a 30% increase compared to the same period last year.
“What makes this particularly tragic is that Cultus Lake, while beautiful, has underwater drop-offs that can surprise even strong swimmers,” explained Dr. Helena Worthington, a water safety expert at the University of British Columbia. “Additionally, the surface temperature can be deceptively warm while deeper water remains dangerously cold, leading to potential cold-water shock.”
Park officials have announced increased safety patrols at Cultus Lake for the remainder of the summer season. They’re also expediting the installation of additional life-saving equipment stations that had been scheduled for completion later this year.
The fiancée, who was treated for shock at the scene but physically unharmed, is receiving support from victim services. A small memorial of flowers has already begun forming at the lakeshore where the incident occurred.
“This serves as a devastating reminder that even experienced swimmers need to exercise caution in natural bodies of water,” said Mayor Stephen Collins of Chilliwack. “Our hearts go out to his fiancée and family during this unimaginable time.”
Water safety experts emphasize that swimmers should always use the buddy system, be aware of changing water conditions, and consider wearing personal flotation devices in unfamiliar waters. As summer activities increase across the country, how can communities better balance recreational enjoyment with essential water safety measures that might prevent such heartbreaking losses?
