Chilliwack RCMP have successfully located the body of a 13-year-old girl from Cultus Lake in British Columbia after a thorough three-day search at the popular swimming destination in the Fraser Valley. The authorities’ underwater recovery team discovered the teenager approximately 20 meters below the water surface around 2 p.m. PT on Monday.
According to Chilliwack RCMP Cpl. Carmen Kiener, the young girl, who was not wearing a life jacket, encountered a medical emergency while floating on a paddleboard on Saturday and consequently fell into the water. Kiener expressed deep sorrow for the tragic loss, emphasizing the unexpected nature of such incidents at the lake.
The search for the missing teen was initiated following a report of a potential drowning on Saturday afternoon. Rescue teams concentrated their efforts in the Entrance Bay area, urging boaters and the public to avoid the region due to poor visibility caused by heavy silt on the lakebed. The case has now been handed over to the B.C. Coroners Service for further investigation.
In light of the recent surge in accidental drownings in British Columbia this summer, with a 54% increase compared to the previous year, Chilliwack RCMP is cautioning the public to exercise extra vigilance around water bodies. Near-drowning incidents are reported frequently at Cultus Lake, as mentioned by Kiener.
Subsequent to the recovery of the 13-year-old girl, another distressing event unfolded when a man paddleboarding at Cultus Lake without a life jacket also experienced a mishap. Prompt intervention from bystanders and RCMP personnel averted a potential tragedy. Kiener highlighted the critical importance of water safety measures, including wearing appropriate life jackets, possessing adequate swimming skills, and refraining from swimming alone.
The recurring water-related incidents underscore the unforgiving nature of water bodies and the imperative need for individuals to comprehend the associated risks.