A multi-agency search for a missing boater on the Wanapitei River concluded Tuesday evening after recovery teams found the man’s body near the rapids where he disappeared.
Emergency crews were first called to the area near Highway 537 and Estaire Road around 4:25 p.m. Monday after reports that a man had fallen overboard. Police said the incident happened when two people in a small aluminum boat attempted to free it from the rapids. One of them, a 68-year-old man, fell into the water and did not resurface, while the other person made it to safety.
Greater Sudbury Police, Fire, and Paramedic Services launched an immediate search, deploying water rescue teams, shoreline vehicles, and aerial support. Overnight efforts by police search and rescue, canine units, and drone operators did not locate the man.
The search resumed Tuesday with assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police, whose recovery team and helicopter joined the operation. Around 5:20 p.m., the OPP Search and Recovery Team found the man’s body underwater near the original site of the accident.
Police offered condolences to the man’s loved ones and stated his name would not be released at the family’s request. Authorities also thanked the OPP, fire, and paramedic services for their coordinated efforts.