Tragedy struck Ottawa’s Westboro Beach yesterday afternoon when a 42-year-old father drowned while successfully saving his child from the Ottawa River’s dangerous currents. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. during what had started as a family outing on the popular beach.
Witnesses describe a harrowing scene as the father noticed his 8-year-old child struggling in the water and immediately rushed to help. “He didn’t hesitate for even a second,” said Miranda Lopez, who was sunbathing nearby when she heard the initial cries for help. “He just ran straight into the water.”
Ottawa Paramedic Services arrived within minutes of receiving emergency calls. They found bystanders performing CPR on the father who had been pulled from the water unconscious. Despite these immediate life-saving efforts, paramedics confirmed he was pronounced dead after being transported to The Ottawa Hospital’s Civic Campus.
The child was successfully rescued and treated on-site for minor injuries and shock before being reunited with family members. Ottawa Police have not released the identity of the father, respecting the family’s privacy during this devastating time.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare turned into reality,” said Ottawa Police Sergeant James Wilson. “While we’re grateful the child survived, we’re heartbroken for this family’s loss.”
Water safety experts note the Ottawa River’s currents near Westboro Beach can be deceptively strong, particularly after recent rainfall. The area where the incident occurred is typically marked with warning signs during summer months, though several beachgoers mentioned that some signs may have been obscured by recent beach maintenance.
“The river looks calm on the surface, but underneath there are strong currents that can quickly overpower even strong swimmers,” explained Nicole Tremblay, a water safety instructor with the City of Ottawa’s Parks and Recreation department. “This tragedy reminds us how quickly conditions can change in natural waterways.”
The drowning marks the third water-related fatality in the Ottawa region this summer. City officials are now considering enhanced safety measures at Westboro Beach, including additional lifeguard stations and more prominent warning signage.
Community members have already begun creating a memorial at the beach entrance, leaving flowers, candles, and supportive messages for the grieving family. Local religious leaders and mental health professionals are offering support services to witnesses and first responders affected by the traumatic event.
Mayor Jim Watson expressed his condolences during this morning’s press conference. “Ottawa mourns with this family today. This father’s ultimate sacrifice to save his child represents the depths of parental love, and our entire community stands ready to support them through this unimaginable loss.”
The National Capital Commission, which oversees Westboro Beach, announced it will conduct a comprehensive safety review of all Ottawa River recreational areas. Officials remind all residents that when visiting any beach:
- Always swim with a buddy
- Keep children within arm’s reach
- Respect posted warnings about currents and conditions
- Consider wearing life jackets, especially for children or weaker swimmers
A community vigil is planned for tomorrow evening at 7:00 p.m. at Westboro Beach to honor the father’s memory and show support for the family. Mental health counselors from the Ottawa Distress Centre will be available on-site.
This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of water safety importance as we enter the heart of summer swimming season. Even as we grieve this loss, many community members have noted the profound love demonstrated in this father’s final act.
“He gave his life for his child,” said Robert Ducharme, who assisted with the rescue efforts. “There’s no greater love than that.”
