Police say they believe the 38-year-old man had been paddleboarding without a lifejacket Wednesday when heavy rain and strong winds created hazardous conditions on Lake Simcoe
South Simcoe police have confirmed the body of a 38-year-old paddleboarder was recovered following an extensive search on Lake Simcoe today.
At about 5:10 p.m. on July 1, police received a report about a man in distress just off the Innisfil shoreline at Mapleview Drive East. It is believed he had been paddleboarding when weather conditions rapidly deteriorated, with heavy rain and strong winds creating hazardous conditions on the water.
“There was concern that the male had become stranded and was unable to safely return to shore,” police said in a Wednesday night media release.
At about 5:35 p.m., members of the South Simcoe Police Service Marine Unit, assisted by the York Regional Police Marine Unit, launched an “extensive search” of the area. During this, the paddleboard was located, prompting officers to expand their search efforts from that location.
At about 8 p.m., the York police helicopter located the body of a 38-year-old man in the water.
“As the investigation progressed, officers determined the man was not wearing a life-jacket at the time of the incident,” South Simcoe police said.
“The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing. This is a tragic outcome, and the South Simcoe Police Service extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.”
The identity of the deceased will not be released out of respect for the family’s privacy, police said.
Innisfil Fire and Rescue Services Chief Brent Thomas says emergency crews of all stripes have been busy on the lake today.
“We are on the water attempting rescues,” he said. “Several have already been rescued.”
He urges residents to check the forecast before heading onto the water.