Child from Alberta rescued from Shuswap River in Enderby in critical condition

A 9-year-old child visiting with family from Alberta was rescued by a bystander from the Shuswap River in Enderby on Monday

The family was spending the afternoon at W.J. Tuey Regional Park on the river in Enderby when they lost sight of the child who was presumed to have gone underwater and had not resurfaced.

They called 911 and bystanders began searching the water. 

One of the people searching found the child underwater pinned against deadwood. RCMP said the child had been underwater for five to 10 minutes.

Members of the public, including a doctor and nurses, provided CPR until paramedics arrived.

The child was transported to hospital in critical condition.

RCMP said criminality is not suspected and no further information will be released to the public.

RCMP Victim Services is supporting the child’s family.

“This tragic incident highlights the dangers surrounding all bodies of water,” Vernon North Okanagan media relations officer Cpl. Tania Finn said in the release. 

“Ensure personal flotation devices and extra care are used, especially around moving water, as there is an increased risk associated with downed branches and other obstacles.”