Man drowns while trying to retrieve boat at Coles Bay

Sadly, a man is dead after an incident at Coles Bay yesterday evening.

At about 5:40 pm, officers from the Sidney North Saanich RCMP responded to the Pauquachin boat ramp at Coles Bay after they received a report of a man in his 40s who was struggling to swim.

Police said emergency services rushed to the scene and two officers entered the water and swam to the man to rescue him.

Even though they were able to get the man out of the water, with the help of several brave bystanders, the man died on the scene.

Firefighters and paramedics tried to resuscitate him, but he could not be revived.

It is believed that the man had swam out to retrieve his boat, which had drifted away from the boat launch, and due to water temperatures he began to struggle.

“We are deeply saddened by the outcome of this event and our thoughts and condolences are with the family and the community. This incident should stand as a reminder to the public that even the strongest swimmer is at risk without proper flotation equipment in cold water,” said Cpl. Andres Sanchez of the Sidney North Saanich RCMP.

Police have transferred the investigation over to the BC Coroners Service.

“The Sidney North Saanich RCMP would like to extend our thanks to the brave civilians and first responders for their response to this event.”