Image credit: GoFundMe

By Aaron Schulze

TRU Student

Fundraiser identifies TRU student who drowned in Thompson River

Jul 17, 2025 | 6:23 AM

KAMLOOPS — The Thompson Rivers University (TRU) student whose body was found in the Thompson River near McArthur Island on Tuesday (July 15) has been identified.

According to an online fundraiser, 27-year-old Jatin Garg was trying to retrieve a volleyball from the Thompson River on July 6. He was part of a group of international students who were playing volleyball on the beach at Overlander Park when he was swept away.

Organizers say Garg arrived in Canada as a TRU international student in August 2024.

“In less than a year, he touched countless lives with his smile, his energy, and his gentle heart. No one could have imagined that his journey would be cut so short,” the fundraiser stated.

Funds raised will go toward sending his remains to his family in India and supporting funeral arrangements.

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As of Thursday (July 17) morning, the fundraiser has raised nearly $20,000, more than its original goal of $13,000. It is now hoping to raise $28,000.

In a statement, Kamloops Search and Rescue says Garg’s body was discovered in the river by one of its members who was “intentionally but unofficially” paddling on the Thompson River.

“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” KSAR said. “We wish you all strength in this difficult time and hope that you will find peace in the days ahead.”

KSAR was called in to help search on Sunday and Monday (July 6 and 7), before making way for the RCMP’s dive team to step in.

“We never stop searching for lost loved ones, and we always hope we can provide families with some form of closure, if that’s possible,” the KSAR statement added.

“We also want to acknowledge the countless, often unseen hours our Search and Rescue volunteers contribute. These quiet efforts frequently go unnoticed, but they make a vital difference when it matters most.”

In an email to the TRU community, university president Airini said there are a number of supports available to staff and students who may have been affected by the incident.

She also said that TRU will acknowledge what has happened more fully “when the time comes.”

– With files from Victor Kaisar/CFJC Today