THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Tijana Martin
A 50-year-old scuba diver died off West Vancouver near Whytecliff Park, marking the second diving death in B.C. within days.
Diver Dies During West Vancouver Dive
A scuba diving trip off West Vancouver turned tragic after a man died near Whytecliff Park on Sunday afternoon.
West Vancouver police said emergency crews rushed to the scene around 1:30 p.m. after reports of a diver in distress in the water. Rescue teams from the Coast Guard, fire services and BC Emergency Health Services responded quickly. However, the 50-year-old diver died at the scene.
Emergency Crews Responded Quickly
Police confirmed the man’s family has been notified. Investigators also said no suspicious circumstances surround the death.
Whytecliff Park is a popular diving spot in British Columbia because of its marine life and coastal views. As a result, the incident has shaken members of the local diving community.
Second Scuba Death in B.C. This Week
The death marks the second fatal scuba diving incident in British Columbia in less than a week.
Earlier this week, a 66-year-old diver died near Gabriola Island, located off the east coast of Vancouver Island. RCMP officers said crews found the man in the water near a mooring buoy on Wednesday.
Investigators also confirmed that incident did not involve suspicious circumstances.
Safety Concerns Rise After Recent Incidents
These back-to-back tragedies have raised fresh concerns about diving safety along the B.C. coast. Although scuba diving remains popular across the province, experts often remind divers to check weather conditions, inspect equipment and dive with experienced partners.
Officials have not released additional details about either incident.