Young man dies after falling through the ice on B.C.’s Shuswap Lake

Changing temperatures are bringing unpredictable ice conditions to lakes throughout the province.

An 18-year-old man reported missing after falling through the ice on Shuswap Lake in B.C.’s Salmon Arm has been found dead, say police.

Police were called to reports of the man plunging into the lake, located between the Raven subdivision and Sandy Point, just after 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Local search and rescue teams joined the Salmon Arm Fire Department and the BC Emergency Health Services in trying to locate the man, before the RCMP’s Underwater Recovery Team took over, said Salmon Arm RCMP in a release Tuesday.

The man was found dead Monday afternoon after a “tireless and extensive search,” it said.

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy that has deeply affected the family, first responders, and the community,” said Sgt. Simon Scott, the Salmon Arm RCMP’s detachment commander.

“Our thoughts are with the loved ones of the young man during this incredibly difficult time.”

The tragic death followed days after similar incident in the Fraser Valley, in which two men lost their lives after falling through the ice during a fishing trip.

As the province continues to experience changing temperatures and unpredictable ice conditions, police are once again urging the public to keep away from frozen lakes. Ice that may appear stable can quickly become hazardous, putting lives at risk, police warn.

“Our officers and search and rescue partners have witnessed the dangers firsthand, and we cannot stress enough the importance of avoiding frozen bodies of water,” said Scott.

“We urge everyone to take extreme caution and prioritize safety to prevent another tragedy.”