THOMPSON – On Monday, May 22, 2017, Thompson RCMP and Thompson Fire and Emergency Services were advised of a group of four overdue canoers who were out paddling on the Burntwood River, North of the City of Thompson, Manitoba.
Police officers and fire fighters launched two rescue boats and initiated a water search of the Burntwood River. A helicopter was also chartered for the search. Several people boating in the area participated in searching, as well as a helicopter that was flying in the area.
The canoe was located overturned in the river, and the four canoers were located deceased in the water. The male victims were all residents of Thompson – ages 6, 14, 33 and 44. All were wearing floatation devices.
“This is the worst result imaginable. Thank you to everyone involved in the search. This is a devastating accident that has left the community of Thompson in mourning,” said Sergeant Ben Sewell of the Thompson RCMP.
The Burntwood River flows through the City of Thompson. Thompson is located about 740 kilometres north of Winnipeg.
