A desperate search operation continues today for a jet ski rider who disappeared Sunday afternoon in the waters near Toronto’s Bluffer’s Beach. The rider, whose identity has not been released, was last seen around 4:30 p.m. when witnesses reported a lone jet ski circling without its operator approximately 300 meters from shore.
Toronto Police Marine Unit, alongside the Coast Guard and Toronto Fire Services, launched an immediate response after receiving multiple 911 calls from beachgoers who spotted the riderless watercraft. “The jet ski was going in circles with nobody on it,” said Michael Torres, who was visiting the beach with his family. “At first we thought maybe someone fell off and would climb back on, but when nobody did, people started calling for help.”
Search conditions have been challenging due to choppy waters and reduced visibility as darkness fell Sunday evening. Toronto Police Staff Sergeant Elena Rodriguez told reporters at the scene that marine units have deployed sonar equipment to scan the lakebed, while helicopters conducted aerial sweeps of the surrounding waters.
“We’re utilizing every resource available to locate this individual,” Rodriguez said. “The search area has been expanded to cover approximately five kilometers of shoreline extending east and west of Bluffer’s Beach.”
This incident comes amid a troubling trend of water safety concerns along Toronto’s waterfront. According to data from the CO24 Breaking News database, water rescues have increased 18% this summer compared to the same period last year.
Marine safety experts emphasize that even experienced jet ski riders can face unexpected dangers. “Lake Ontario’s conditions can change rapidly,” explained water safety instructor James Chen. “Strong currents, sudden weather shifts, and the physical exhaustion of falling into cold water can quickly create life-threatening situations.”
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information about the missing rider to contact Toronto Police immediately. Meanwhile, local residents have organized a shoreline search party to assist official efforts.
“The community response has been tremendous,” said Scarborough East councillor Jennifer Williams. “Dozens of volunteers are combing the beaches and bluffs while respecting the boundaries set by emergency services.”
As the search continues into its second day, families visiting Bluffer’s Beach are being advised to exercise extreme caution near the water and to ensure proper safety equipment is worn during all watercraft activities.
For updates on this developing story, follow our continuous coverage at CO24 Sports and CO24 Breaking News.
