KAWARTHA LAKES-A 75-year-old man has drowned on Balsam Lake.
On Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at approximately 6:21 p.m., officers responded to a marine call on Balsam Lake, where they were notified that a male in a canoe had gone overboard and failed to resurface. The City of Kawartha Lakes OPP (including the Marine unit), along with OPP Emergency Response Unit (ERT) members patrolled the water extensively but were unable to locate the individual before nightfall.
On Wednesday, July 30, 2025, the OPP Underwater Search and Recovery Unit aided in recovery measures and the body of a 75-year-old from North York was recovered at approximately 1:30 p.m.
Police say at this point in the investigation it appears the man was not wearing a life jacket.
Capsizing or falling overboard are the two leading causes of death in boating incidents, and wearing a life jacket can mean the difference between life and death.
The Ontario Provincial Police has responded to numerous marine fatalities in eastern Ontario so far this summer. That’s more than double the number of drowning deaths at this time last year.
In each incident in the region this summer, the victim has not been wearing a life jacket.
“This is about education and changing the mindset to ensure everyone wears the proper gear, whether in a power boat or in a canoe. This is about coming home safely and ensuring that everyone, adults and children, are safe on or near the water.” said Chief Superintendent Lisa Wilhelm, OPP East Region Commander
If you are on or near the water this summer, ensure that you AND your children are protected. Wear your life jackets.
