Elk Valley RCMP respond to drowning on Koocanusa Lake

July 29, 2026 - Koocanusa Lake, British Columbia
From: Elk Valley Regional RCMP

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On July 25, 2026, Elk Valley RCMP frontline officers responded to a report of a drowning on Koocanusa lake. Initial information indicated that a 63 year old man from Alberta had jumped into the water to save his dog and that in the process had drowned.

Patrols were conducted with the RCMP boat as well as by drone in efforts to locate the man but he was not located. The dog was able to swim to shore and was confirmed to be safe. 

On July 28, 2026, the Hutterian Emergency Aquatic Response Team assisted in locating and recovering the body of the man. 

The investigation has been turned over to the BC Coroner Service and the death appears to be non-suspicious. 

Elk Valley RCMP want to express our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

Elk Valley RCMP want to remind everyone to wear personal flotation devices when boating or using any recreational watercraft on the lake and/or rivers. 

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