An 18-year-old drowned in the Rideau River Monday night near Manotick. Ottawa residents and firefighters joined rescue efforts, but the teen later died in hospital.
Emergency Unfolds Near Manotick Park
A tragic drowning incident occurred Monday night near Walter Upton-Collins Park in the Manotick area of south Ottawa. Ottawa Fire Services were called to the scene around 9:20 p.m. following a report that a teenager went missing while swimming in the Rideau River.
Teen Reported Missing After Evening Swim
According to Ottawa Fire Services (OFS), three teenagers had gone swimming in the river, but only two returned to shore. The alarm was raised immediately, prompting a swift response from emergency crews. A search and rescue boat was launched around 9:45 p.m. as efforts intensified to locate the missing youth.
Community Members Join Search Efforts
Residents near the riverbank witnessed the unfolding emergency. “There were a lot of flashlights being pointed into the water,” said Michel Strittmatter, a nearby resident. Another local, Sanjeev Sharma, said two boys in swimsuits knocked on his door pleading for help. “I kept going down to the bottom trying to see—it was very dark,” he recalled.
Rescue Turns to Tragedy
OFS confirmed that the teenager was eventually located and brought ashore. He was immediately handed over to Ottawa paramedics. Emergency responders noted the teen was in cardiac arrest upon retrieval and transported him to hospital. Despite efforts to save him, Ottawa Police confirmed on Tuesday that the 18-year-old male succumbed to his injuries.
Police Acknowledge Local Support
Ottawa Police did not release the identity of the victim but confirmed he was swimming with two other teens. Authorities expressed gratitude to community members who assisted in the rescue efforts, noting the quick action of residents like Sharma and Strittmatter.
Safety Concerns Renewed in Wake of Incident
The incident has reignited safety concerns around local water bodies. Both residents mentioned that the tragedy reminded them of a 2023 incident in which two teenagers lost their lives after falling through ice in the same vicinity. As summer temperatures rise, officials are urging caution for anyone engaging in open-water activities.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
