Man drowns in lake

The B.C. Coroners Service is investigating a fatal incident on a local lake.

RCMP say on Saturday, July 16 at about 7:30 p.m., officers from Lake Country and Kelowna responded to a 911 report of a drowning on Wood Lake in Lake Country.

Corporal Judith Bertrand, media relations officer for the Kelowna Regional RCMP, said the preliminary investigation indicates that the man drowned trying to assist another passenger in the water.

“According to witnesses, several other boaters located the two men in distress. One man was rescued with a life jacket but unfortunately the second male, who was brought back to the Oyama boat launch to meet first responders, died,” said Bertrand.

With criminality not suspected, the Coroners Services has taken control of the investigation.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased man,” said Bertrand. “We want to commend the people that assisted with the rescue efforts. Wearing and having easy access to life jackets made a significant difference in the outcome of this tragic event.”

RCMP pass on this link for further boat safety tips.