A father and his seven‑year‑old son have died following a boating tragedy on Lake Erie Monday afternoon.
Emergency responders were called to the waters just west of Long Point shortly before 4 p.m. after receiving a report of overdue boaters near Townline Street in St. Williams. The incident prompted a multi‑agency response involving the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Canadian Coast Guard.
According to Sgt. Ed Sanchuk of West Region OPP, the pair were located by a passing boater approximately two nautical miles from shore while crews were en route to the area.
The Canadian Coast Guard, based out of Port Dover, recovered both individuals from the water.
“A 53‑year‑old man and his seven‑year‑old son were pronounced deceased a short time later,” Sanchuk confirmed.
Police say both the father and child were wearing life jackets at the time of the incident.
Investigators are continuing their search for the vessel the pair had departed shore in. OPP have since confirmed the boat was a canoe and are asking boaters and residents to contact police if they spot a missing vessel in the area.
The identities of the victims have not been released.
While the investigation remains ongoing, officials are reminding the public that boating at this time of year carries added risks — particularly due to cold water temperatures.
“I did speak to the Canadian Coast Guard, and the water was between seven and 10 degrees [Celsius] yesterday,” Sanchuk said. “So again, it really comes down to the fact that if you are going to venture out on the water, make sure that you do have warm clothing, make sure you have a plan in place. More importantly though, make sure you let somebody know when you’re coming back.”
Those concerns were echoed by Robert Kusneirz, owner of Inner Bay Marina and Trailer Park, located near where the incident occurred.
Kusneirz says he did not want his comments to add further grief for the victims’ family and friends but emphasized that cold spring conditions on the lake can be especially dangerous.
The loss is being deeply felt across the region.
“In smaller communities, everyone feels the loss — especially when a child is involved,” Sanchuk said. “I was speaking to some of the first responders, one of the paramedics last night and early this morning, and they know who this young boy is. And again, it affects everyone.”
The OPP Traffic Incident Management and Enforcement Team are assisting with the investigation. Police say further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Anyone with information or who may locate the missing canoe is urged to contact police.
