The body of a 13-year-old girl has been found by RCMP divers in Cultus Lake, British Columbia, after a three-day search. The teen was located approximately 20 meters beneath the water’s surface on Monday afternoon. The girl, who was not wearing a life jacket, is believed to have experienced a medical emergency while on a paddleboard on Saturday and subsequently fell into the water, according to Chilliwack RCMP Cpl. Carmen Kiener.

Kiener expressed deep regret over the tragic incident, emphasizing the unexpected nature of such events at the lake. Authorities initiated the search following a report of a potential drowning on Saturday. Search efforts were concentrated in the Entrance Bay area, with boaters and the public advised to steer clear due to poor visibility caused by heavy silt on the lake bed.

The case has been handed over to the B.C. Coroners Service for further investigation. Chilliwack RCMP officials are urging the public to exercise caution around water bodies. Notably, there has been a notable increase in accidental drownings in British Columbia this summer, with a reported 54% surge compared to the previous year.

Kiener highlighted the frequency of near-drowning incidents at Cultus Lake and recounted a recent rescue involving a man in distress while paddleboarding without a life jacket. She emphasized the importance of wearing a properly fitted life jacket, possessing adequate swimming skills, and avoiding solo swimming.