Thetis Lake Tragedy: September 4, 2025, Man Dies in Drowning Incident

 Emergency personnel were called to Upper Thetis Lake in View Royal, Victoria, early on Thursday, September 4, 2025, after hearing a loud disturbance close to the upper part of the lake at around 3:00 PM. There were concerning indications from witnesses that someone was in trouble in the sea.

As part of their coordinated response, Langford Fire Rescue, West Shore RCMP, and View Royal Fire Rescue sent out a search-and-rescue boat at approximately 4:00 PM. After hours of searching, a man's body was found in the water.

Response to Emergencies and Recovery

Shortly after, responding crews, including Langford Fire and RCMP officers, arrived and started recovery efforts. At the scene, firefighters, paramedics, and RCMP officers collaborated. The area where the drowning allegedly occurred was searched by a search and rescue vessel.

Unfortunately, the person could not be revived despite quick efforts.

Victim and Situation

The victim's identity, age, and background have not yet been made public by the authorities. While they do their inquiry, the BC Coroners Service has not released an official comment.

Safety Issues & Community Reaction

Continued safety issues at this well-known regional lake are highlighted by historical reportage of drownings at Thetis Lake, especially in September 2023 when an international student drowned only a few meters from shore. At Thetis Lake Regional Park, which welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists annually, officials and community activists have consistently demanded increased lifeguard presence and water safety enforcement.

Remembering the Lesson

This incident highlights the risks that exist even in places that seem safe for pleasure. Emergency preparedness is demonstrated by the prompt deployment of fire, police, and water rescue boats, but it also highlights the ongoing call for more robust preventive measures, such as:

Life jackets or flotation devices for weak or non-swimmers are required.

Swim places with designated lifeguards, particularly during peak traffic times

Increased public knowledge of lake risks and local water conditions