The body of a man who went missing while paddle boarding on Chestermere Lake the afternoon of July 26 has been recovered.
According to the City of Chestermere emergency alert website, Chestermere RCMP in cooperation with Chestermere Fire Services, the Western Cadaver Dog Association and the Central Alberta Rescue Diving Society, recovered the body of the missing individual at approximately 8:41 p.m. on July 27.
The search began on July 26 at approximately 3 p.m., when Chestermere RCMP responded to a call regarding a possible drowning near Anniversary Beach by Chestermere Lake.
According to the initial press release from RCMP, two adult males were out on the water with their paddle boards when they fell into the lake. A struggle to stay afloat ensued and onlookers were able to rescue one of the men. The other swimmer went under the water and did not resurface, the release stated.
On the afternoon of July 27, the aim of the search mission was amended to a recovery mission.
The man who was rescued by other beachgoers was taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure. There was no update on his condition as of press time.
The deceased – a 47-year-old Calgary resident – was transported to the medical examiner’s office on July 27. The man’s family has been notified and victim services are involved.
RCMP said alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in the drowning.
After a two-day closure, the City’s public boat launch and Anniversary Beach were reopened to the public on July 28.
The tragic incident came on the heels of National Drowning Prevention Week, which was held from July 18 to 24. In light of the yearly awareness campaign and multiple drowning incidents already this summer, The Lifesaving Society has published some safety tips to keep in mind when a body of water is involved.
“Always supervise children while they are in the water – if they’re not within arms’ reach, they’re too far,” a statement from the society reads. “Stay sober while boating – 40 per cent of boating related fatalities are alcohol-related. And, always have a life jacket or personal flotation device and wear it regularly and properly.”
