Vernon Search and Rescue assisting with locating the man caught in fast-moving water in the Shuswap River (photo courtesy of VSAR / Facebook)

By Liam Verster

VSAR finds body

Fast-moving water leads to drowning in Shuswap River

Jun 17, 2024 | 12:08 PM

A man has died after being caught in fast-moving water while swimming in the Shuswap River near Sugar Lake in Cherryville.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP said a 53-year-old man entered the river, intending to swim across and back, at approximately 5 p.m. Friday, June 14.

The man made it across, but on his way back, he was caught up in fast-moving water, which took him downstream and out of sight of his companions.

“Despite searching for over three hours, the group was unable to locate their friend and advised police,” Corporal Tania Finn of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP stated.

The man’s body was found the next day.

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“It was through the efforts of Vernon Search and Rescue that the body of the man was discovered the following day. Our sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” Finn added.

The RCMP warns that fast-moving water can be unpredictable and dangerous this time of year, and advises people be safe and use extra care in and around lakes and rivers as the weather warms up.