Teenager’s body recovered after boating incident in B.C.’s Cariboo

The southern part of Stony Lake is seen in this image. (Credit: sitesandtrailsbc.ca)

Authorities have recovered the body of a 17-year-old boy who was presumed drowned after a boating incident in B.C.’s Cariboo region last weekend.

The boat reportedly capsized with four people on board Saturday on Stony Lake, located approximately 100 kilometres from the community of Quesnel.

Three of the occupants were able to make it to shore, but the teenager operating the boat did not surface.

Quesnel RCMP confirmed an underwater recovery team found the boy’s body Tuesday.

“Our thoughts remain with the family, friends, and community as they navigate this difficult loss,” Staff Sgt. Richard Weseen, detachment commander, said in a statement.

The B.C. Coroners Service recently raised the alarm about an increase in accidental drowning deaths this year, with nine such fatalities reported between March and May—up from five during the same period in 2025.

Chief coroner Jatinder Baidwan issued a statement last week warning that warmer weather brings both “more opportunities for adventure, and more risks.”

“Remember to put safety first to avoid preventable tragedies,” Baidwan said.

With files from CTV News Vancouver’s Lisa Steacy