Agassiz, BC – Tragedy struck at Grace Lake in Agassiz on the evening of February 4, as two ice fishermen lost their lives after falling through the ice. The Agassiz RCMP confirmed the deaths, following an intense search and recovery operation.
According to police, at approximately 11:16 p.m., a family member reported that the two men, who had been fishing earlier in the day, had not returned home. Concerned, the family member went to the lake and discovered a large hole in the ice, along with the men’s fishing gear, which led them to believe the fishermen had fallen in.
The RCMP, along with search and rescue teams from Kent-Harrison, Mission, and Chilliwack, responded swiftly to the scene. During the search, the bodies of the two men were found beneath the ice’s surface. The RCMP Underwater Recovery Team (URT) was called in to perform the challenging recovery mission. This specialized unit, consisting of expert divers trained in police diving techniques, including ice diving, played a crucial role in the operation.
RCMP officials have stated that they are working closely with the BC Coroner Service, although foul play is not suspected in the incident.
“This tragedy serves as a stark reminder that ice conditions can change rapidly,” said Cpl. Chad Raymond, spokesperson for the Agassiz RCMP. “Even if ice thickness has been tested, varying weather and water conditions can still make it unsafe.”
The RCMP extended their condolences to the families and friends of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time.
