3 rescued after vessel capsizes in northern B.C. lake

An RCMP epaulette is seen in Edmonton, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

Two adults and a child were rescued Tuesday after their vessel capsized in a lake in northern B.C., according to police, who are reminding boaters to always wear a personal flotation device or life jacket while on the water.

The Fort St. James RCMP says the 17.5-foot vessel sank near Sowchea Bay on Stuart Lake. A man and a child made it safely to shore on their own, but a second man was stuck in the water.

Nearby residents heard cries for help and launched their boat to come to the group’s aid before police arrived, according to a statement. The man was in the water for about 90 minutes and was unable to climb aboard the assisting vessel, and he remained afloat by clinging to debris from the sunken boat.

Officers brought the man on board an RCMP vessel and picked up the other adult and child on shore to take them to Pitka Bay, where they were assessed by paramedics, police said.

The man stuck in the water was not wearing a flotation device, and the pair who made it to shore were, according to Mounties.

In addition to wearing a life jacket, the Fort St. James RCMP urged boaters to check weather conditions before departing, inspect their vessels, let someone know their plans before leaving and ensure safety equipment is on board.

“The Fort St. James RCMP would also like to acknowledge the quick actions of the residents who responded after hearing calls for help. Their decision to assist played an important role in the successful rescue,” the statement concludes.