Separate drownings over two days in British Columbia’s Interior

A kayaker has drowned in British Columbia’s Okanagan Lake, while another is presumed dead after being swept away in the Columbia River near Castlegar, both within a two-day span.

Police in West Kelowna say two kayakers went into the water on Friday near the Westbank First Nation beach.

The kayakers faced sudden windy conditions that overturned their boats, and one person went under and didn’t resurface.

Central Okanagan Search and Rescue was able to find the body several hours later, and police say that person has been identified as a U.S. citizen.

On Saturday night, police in Castlegar say they received reports of a man in distress in the Columbia River, with witnesses telling investigators that he was seen being carried downstream.

Police say no trace of the man has been found despite searches using boats and drones, and he is presumed drowned with the recovery effort ongoing.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 23, 2026.

Chuck Chiang, The Canadian Press