Ottawa father drowns during vacation in Cuba

CTV Ottawa: Ottawa man drowns on vacation in Cuba Vacation tragedy leaves family shocked, and in financial distress. Natalie Pierosara reports.

Yue Liu of Ottawa drowned last week at a beach resort  in Varadero Cuba. His 7-year-old son, Connor, narrowly survived.

Liu was playing in the ocean with his son last Wednesday when a strong wave overtook them and the two were caught in a current.

Liu's wife Fanyan Bu, was at the hotel pool with their 9 year daughter Crystal.

Witnesses say Liu managed to keep his son's head above water and was screaming for help.

Another Canadian man on the beach, jumped in to save them.

As his son was being rescued Liu said to him "I cannot save you anymore", those were his last words. When Liu was finally pulled from the water he could not be resuscitated.

Ottawa's Chinese community is rallying to support the family with fundraising efforts.

Tonight at 6, CTV's Natalie Pierosara talks to Liu's widow.