Vernon Search and Rescue boat (Image credit: VSAR)

By Pete McIntyre-Vernon Matters

CAUGHT IN STORM

Searches launched for missing men on Vernon area lakes

Jul 25, 2023 | 11:00 AM

VERNON, B.C. — Two men are missing after separate late-night boating incidents on lakes in the Vernon area.

RCMP received a report of a missing kayaker on Kalamalka Lake around 11 p.m. Monday, July 24.

“The man was with a group of kayakers who were out on the lake at the time a storm blew in,” Vernon North Okanagan RCMP Const. Chris Terleski said.

After encountering rough conditions, the group was able to land on the west side of the lake. One of the men in the group left in an attempt to paddle back across the lake to Kal Beach.

“The man was not seen again, and his kayak has since been recovered. Vernon Search and Rescue responded and conducted an initial search for the man who was not found,” Terleski stated.

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A short time later, around 11:15 p.m., police received a report that one person was missing after a commercial fishing vessel had capsized on Okanagan Lake near Ellison Provincial Park.

“The boat was engaged in fishing activities and towing a smaller vessel when it encountered high waves and strong winds brought on by an overnight storm, causing the vessel to overturn,” Terleski said.

The man operating the vessel did not surface. An initial search of the area was conducted by Vernon Search and Rescue as well as an RCMP police boat, but the man was not located.

Terleski said searches continue on both lakes today, using both Vernon Search and Rescue and RCMP resources.

“These are both terribly unfortunate events, and our thoughts are with the families during this difficult time as we continue our search for their loved ones,” the media relations officer said.

Additional updates will be provided when available.