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Man without lifejacket drowns while tubing on Okanagan Lake

West Kelowna RCMP are investigating the fourth drowning in Okanagan Lake so far this summer.

Police received a report about someone who was missing and presumed drowned after a boating incident around 11:53 a.m. Saturday, July 11, according to a press release from police.

A 45-year-old man tubing behind a boat was thrown into the water and he wasn’t wearing a lifejacket.

“This is a tragic reminder of how quickly recreational activities on the water can turn into an emergency,” West Kelowna RCMP media officer Cpl. Devon Gerrits said in the release.

The boat driver stopped immediately and got into the water to try to rescue the man, but he was unsuccessful and needed to be rescued himself by a passing boater.

RCMP responded with Kelowna Fire Rescue and BC emergency Health Services. The RCMP Underwater Recovery Team is also trying to recover the drowned man’s body.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the man’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.” Gerrits said.

“We also want to remind everyone enjoying our lakes this summer to always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent drowning.”

Police are still investigating the drowning and said no more information will be released at this time.

A U.S. citizen drowned near West Kelowna while kayaking on June 19. The kayaker set out with someone else, but they encountered heavy winds and capsized. One of the kayakers was found safe, but the second was pronounced dead at the scene.

Another person was found dead and presumed drowned on July 6 near Mushroom Beach, and a third person was found dead near Poplar Point Drive on June 29.

There was a drowning in Kamloops as well after a woman drove into the North Thompson River back in May.

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Jesse Tomas

Jesse Tomas is a reporter from Toronto who joined iNFOnews.ca in 2023. He graduated with a Bachelor in Journalism from Carleton University in 2022.