American kayaker drowns in busy B.C. lake after tragic incident | Daily Hive

Central Okanagan Search & Rescue

Police are continuing their investigation into the fatal drowning of an American kayaker on Okanagan Lake late last week and have issued a “tragic reminder” following the incident.

At approximately 7:13 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, West Kelowna RCMP received reports that two kayakers had capsized near Westbank First Nation Beach after encountering sudden wind conditions.

“Both individuals attempted to swim to shore; however, one kayaker went under the water and did not resurface,” said police in an update on Tuesday, June 23.

“Neither kayaker was wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the incident.”

Kelowna RCMP

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Officers responded to the beach located on the 2100 block of Boucherie Road, using a civilian vessel in the vicinity to start search efforts.

West Kelowna RCMP deployed the detachment boat on Okanogan Lake, Peachland Fire Rescue assisted with a vessel, and Central Okanagan Search & Rescue also helped as an emergency responder.

While the second kayaker was quickly located and accounted for, it took several hours of searching before the missing kayaker was located and recovered.

The individual, who has been identified as a United States citizen, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Victim Services also attended to support those affected.

Central Okanagan Search & Rescue

The BC Coroners Service has been notified about the incident and is conducting a parallel investigation. Police added that efforts to notify the deceased’s next of kin are continuing.

“This is a tragic reminder of how quickly conditions can change on Okanagan Lake,” said Cst. Ash Puri, Media Relations Officer for the West Kelowna RCMP.

“Wearing a life jacket can make the difference between life and death. We urge all boaters and paddlers to take that simple step every time they’re on the water.”

According to Transport Canada, it is a legal requirement to have a lifejacket or personal flotation device on board for each person on a watercraft, including human-powered ones.