Shock After Browning Lake Incident

First of all, a quiet day at Browning Lake in Squamish turned tragic on Saturday. Then, two paddleboarders went into the water and did not come back up. After that, emergency crews responded quickly, and the area was closed as search efforts began. Meanwhile, shock spread through the community and across two grieving families.

Families Remember Genesis Bague and Mariz Bello

Moreover, families of the victims spoke out after learning the heartbreaking news. In particular, they described Genesis Bague and Mariz Bello as caring, driven, and deeply loved.

Meanwhile, Genesis’ father, Francisco Bague, shared how close his son was to him. He explained that Genesis often helped him through serious health struggles. In addition, he said the loss feels overwhelming and hard to process.

Furthermore, Francisco expressed deep emotion as he reflected on past family moments. “I’m in shock,” he said, while also sharing concern for his health during this difficult time.

At the same time, Genesis’ mother, Edelina Bague, leaned on her faith. She said she is giving everything to the Lord. In this way, she is trying to find strength through prayer and belief.

Grief, Faith, and Hard Questions

Meanwhile, the family of Mariz Bello also shared their pain. Her sister, Angelie Bello Bernel, described Mariz as strong, responsible, and full of dreams.

Moreover, she said Mariz worked hard not just for herself but for the whole family. In addition, she explained that Mariz often supported their mother’s needs.

However, the loss now leaves a major gap in the family’s daily life. Consequently, they are unsure how they will move forward without her support.

Then again, they continue to hold onto memories and love. As a result, their grief remains heavy, yet their bond stays strong.

Repatriation Plans to the Philippines

Next, both families shared another important hope. Specifically, they want to bring their loved ones back to the Philippines. After that, they plan to hold proper final respects with extended family and friends.

Meanwhile, arrangements are still being discussed, and the families are waiting for next steps. In addition, they continue to support one another through this painful process.

RCMP Recovery Update

Finally, the Squamish RCMP reported that they first received a drowning call on Saturday at about 3 p.m. Then, search teams worked through the weekend. After that, the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team located the bodies on Tuesday.

Moreover, investigators confirmed the recovery and closed the active search phase. Meanwhile, the community continues to reflect on the tragedy and support the grieving families.

The post Squamish Paddleboard Tragedy: Families Grieve Loss first appeared on Maple News Wire.

A black bear sow charged a runner near the Squamish Estuary after he surprised her cubs. Conservation officers now urge the public to avoid the area.

Runner Surprised by Bear Near Squamish Trails

A quiet evening run near the Squamish Estuary turned frightening after a black bear sow charged a man who unknowingly came close to her cubs.

The incident happened around 7 p.m. on May 25 near Spit Road. According to the BC Conservation Officer Service, the runner suddenly encountered two cubs before the mother bear rushed toward him and swiped several times.

Thankfully, the man suffered only minor injuries.

Quick Action Helps Scare Bear Away

Several nearby people stepped in during the tense moment. They yelled loudly and made themselves appear larger, which helped drive the bear away safely.

Calvin Rochon with the BC Conservation Officer Service said the sow acted defensively because her cubs were nearby.

He explained that this type of behaviour is normal for a mother bear protecting young cubs. Therefore, officers decided not to relocate or destroy the animal.

Instead, officials now want residents and visitors to stay away from the area until conditions improve.

Officers Patrol Area and Enforce Leash Rules

Conservation officers returned to the estuary early the next morning. Since then, they have installed warning signs, blocked trails and increased patrols near trailheads.

Officers are also cracking down on off-leash dogs in the wildlife management area.

Dog owners who ignore leash laws could face a $300 fine.

Rochon stressed that dogs must stay leashed in bear habitat because loose pets can trigger dangerous wildlife encounters.

He also urged hikers and runners to make noise, stay alert and carry bear spray when travelling through wooded areas.

Squamish Estuary Remains Prime Bear Habitat

The Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area covers 673 hectares and supports a wide range of wildlife.

During spring, black bears forage for fresh vegetation such as grasses, horsetails and skunk cabbage, which grows throughout the estuary’s wetland areas.

Because of this rich food supply, bears frequently move through the region.

Officials say the protected area exists so wildlife can feed and live naturally with minimal disturbance.

Runners and Cyclists Face Higher Risk

WildSafeBC warns that runners and cyclists can accidentally surprise bears more easily than hikers.

Fast movement and quiet travel often increase the chance of a sudden encounter. In some cases, rapid movement may even trigger a chase response.

Experts recommend slowing down near blind corners, calling out regularly and remaining aware of surroundings while using trails in bear country.

Officials Say Bear Is Not Considered Dangerous

Conservation officers do not believe the sow has been involved in previous conflicts with humans.

Rochon noted that black bear attacks remain rare across British Columbia. Still, he reminded the public that bears are powerful predators that deserve caution and respect.

The Conservation Officer Service continues to ask people to avoid the estuary area for now. Anyone concerned about bear activity can contact the Report All Poachers and Polluters hotline.

The post Bear Charge Sparks Safety Warning in Squamish first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Big Police Move Shakes Downtown Squamish Encampment

A sudden police operation in downtown Squamish grabbed attention fast. First, residents saw heavy police presence. Then, the situation escalated quickly. As a result, two men ended up arrested after officers found weapons and drugs inside an encampment tent.

Meanwhile, the operation unfolded near the 37000 block of Third Avenue and Main Street, behind the Under One Roof shelter. In addition, the area stayed tense for hours as officers moved in and out.

Early Morning Operation Sparks Downtown Disruption

First, around 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, officers from Royal Canadian Mounted Police executed a search warrant. Then, they entered a tent inside a local encampment.

Next, the scene grew more intense. Moreover, officers from multiple RCMP units joined in, including general duty members and specialized teams. In addition, an emergency response team and tactical support officers arrived to secure the area.

Meanwhile, police warned the public to avoid the downtown zone. As a result, people nearby noticed a strong police presence and shifting road access.

Weapons, Drugs, and Evidence Discovered

Then, during the search, officers found several concerning items. Specifically, they seized prohibited weapons, imitation firearms, live ammunition, and illegal drugs. In addition, they located evidence linked to drug trafficking.

Furthermore, investigators tied the findings to an ongoing drug trafficking probe. Therefore, this was not a random check. Instead, it formed part of a long-term investigation led by the Sea to Sky RCMP.

Two Arrests Follow Fast-Moving Scene

Next, officers made the first arrest at the encampment site. Then, shortly after, they arrested a second man on Second Avenue.

Meanwhile, witnesses saw officers handcuff one man on the ground before moving him into a police vehicle. In addition, multiple officers surrounded the scene to maintain control and safety.

However, police did not release the names of either man. Subsequently, both men were released later, and authorities said potential charges will depend on ongoing evidence review.

Long Investigation Behind the Operation

Earlier, investigators from the Sea to Sky RCMP had been tracking suspected drug activity in the area. Then, they built enough evidence to support a search warrant.

Moreover, police said the operation formed part of a wider strategy to target drug trafficking and related crime in Squamish. In addition, they worked with specialized units to strengthen enforcement efforts.

Therefore, this raid was the result of months of investigative work rather than a sudden decision.

Community Concerns Add to Tension

Meanwhile, the incident comes during a sensitive time in Squamish. Residents continue to debate proposed supportive housing plans for unhoused people in the area.

In addition, concerns about safety in the downtown core have grown in recent months. As a result, police say they increased patrols and proactive enforcement.

Furthermore, local officers report rising issues involving violent incidents and property crime. Therefore, they say they are expanding partnerships and intelligence-led policing.

RCMP Response and Next Steps

Finally, RCMP leadership emphasized public safety. Staff Sgt. Sascha Banks said the force continues to focus on protecting the community and responding to local concerns.

Then, she noted that officers increased targeted patrols and strengthened coordination with partner agencies. In addition, she said investigations like this show their commitment to tackling drug-related crime.

What Happens Next

Now, investigators continue reviewing the evidence. Then, they will decide on possible charges in the coming weeks and months.

Meanwhile, police encourage anyone with information about the incident to contact Squamish RCMP at (604) 892-6100.

The post Squamish Encampment Raid: Weapons Drugs Seized, 2 Arrested first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Squamish Workers, District Reach Tentative Deal After Lockout

Deal Reached After Two Weeks of Disruption

A tentative agreement has been reached between the District of Squamish and CUPE Local 2269, ending a nearly two-week lockout that affected public services across the community. The deal, announced Tuesday afternoon, follows intensive discussions and mediation sessions aimed at restoring normal operations.

Union Seeks Fair Wages and Workplace Renewal

The local union, representing roughly 250 district employees, said details of the agreement will remain confidential until members review and ratify it.
Union president Celeste Bickford described the lockout as a “difficult chapter,” emphasizing that the new agreement is a key step toward rebuilding morale and improving workplace culture.

Wages Central to the Dispute

Negotiations centered on wage increases and cost-of-living concerns. CUPE 2269 initially sought a 4.5% raise for 2025 and 4% for 2026, while the district proposed a $27.50 hourly minimum for its lowest-paid workers, alongside general wage increases of 3.26% in 2025 and 2.99% in 2026.
A recent report set the 2024 living wage in Squamish at $26.76 per hour, underscoring the wage gap that contributed to the impasse.

District Expresses Optimism

The District of Squamish confirmed the agreement in a statement, crediting “extensive dialogue” for the breakthrough.
Mayor Armand Hurford said the deal represents “an opportunity to move forward together,” acknowledging the challenges faced by both sides since negotiations stalled in July.

Community Impact During the Lockout

Residents have experienced significant disruptions since the Oct. 16 lockout, including closures at Brennan Park Recreation Centre’s rink and pool. The lockout followed earlier union job action that began on Oct. 2, involving an overtime ban in public works.

Next Steps Toward Resolution

While both sides await ratification, picket lines will remain in place. Non-binding mediation through the Labour Relations Board of B.C. began Oct. 24, marking a turning point in efforts to restore services.
Once ratified, the agreement is expected to bring stability to municipal operations and signal a renewed partnership between workers and the district.

The post Squamish Workers, District End Lockout with Tentative Deal first appeared on Maple News Wire.