Sudbury man dies after falling through the ice on Onwatin Lake

No ice is safe ice Following the tragic drowning incident in Ottawa, northern first responders share concerns about people out on the ice in the mild weather.

Sudbury police say a 60-year-old man from the community of Hanmer has died after venturing onto the ice of Onwatin Lake.

Emergency crews including the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS), Greater Sudbury Fire Services and EMS (paramedic services) responded shortly after at 10:45 a.m. Sunday, they recovered an unconscious individual from the lake.

“Immediate lifesaving efforts were initiated however the individual succumbed to the immersion in the cold water,” said GSPS in a news release on New Year's Eve.

Sudbury police have requested the coroner's office's assistance with the investigation.

Police say this tragedy serves as a stark reminder to our community that as winter embraces our community, we urge everyone to prioritize safety.

“Recent unseasonal winter weather conditions have led to unstable ice on area lakes and waterways please refrain from venturing onto these frozen surfaces as they pose significant risks,” said police.

“Your safety is our top priority.”

This message echoes the warnings from Greater Sudbury’s deputy fire chief Jesse Oshell last week.

"The ice conditions are concerning, these mild temperatures, although there may be some ice on local waterways, at this time of year any ice should be considered dangerous," he said.

The identity of the Onwatin Lake Road resident who perished has not been released.

“Out of respect for the family we will not be releasing the name of the individual involved,” said police.

“Our sincerest condolences are shared to the family and friends involved in this tragic incident.”

– With files from CTV News Northern Ontario videojournalist Amanda Hicks