2 people dead after separate drowning incidents in Nanaimo Wednesday evening

Nanaimo RCMP responded to two separate drowning calls on the evening of Wednesday, May 20th. 

According to police, the first incident occurred in the vicinity of Departure Bay Beach. 

Police received a well-being check call at around 6 p.m. for an adult woman at Departure Bay Beach. 

Alongside Nanaimo RCMP, Nanaimo Search and Rescue (NSAR), two aircraft from 442 Rescue Squadron (CFB Comox) and the Nanaimo Harbor Patrol responded. 

At around 9 p.m., the woman was found deceased near Departure Bay Beach, despite the life-saving efforts of first responders. 

Police say foul play is not suspected, and the BC Coroners Service took over the case.

While the search was ongoing for the woman at Departure Bay Beach, police received a second call regarding a man in distress while swimming near the Brechin boat ramp at the north end of Stewart Avenue.

The call came in at around 7:30 p.m., prompting a response from police, Nanaimo Fire Rescue, paramedics and Nanaimo Harbour Patrol.

First-responders were able to pull the man from the water, but paramedics could not resuscitate him and he was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

For the second drowning, investigators say that early indications suggest no foul play was involved. 

The circumstances of his drowning are being examined in conjunction with the BC Coroners Service.

“Both incidents were witnessed by various members of the public,” said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

“Witnessing a sudden medical emergency or loss of life can have a significant emotional impact, even for those not directly involved. Anyone who may be struggling by what they saw or experienced is encouraged to seek support.”

Nanaimo RCMP say their victim services are available to provide confidential assistance for anyone impacted by these incidents and can be reached at (250) 755-3100.