A Banff resident, aged 29, tragically drowned at Johnson Lake in Banff National Park on Sunday evening, as confirmed by authorities. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) reported the retrieval of the individual around 7 p.m., with no suspicion of foul play, according to RCMP representative Cpl. Gina Slaney.
Parks Canada’s Banff field unit’s strategic communications advisor, Victoria Hawley, disclosed that rescue teams were dispatched in response to a distressed swimmer. Regrettably, upon their arrival, the swimmer had already passed away.
Parks Canada expressed heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, and loved ones during this challenging period. Emergency responders, including paramedics, Banff RCMP, Banff Fire Department, and Alpine Helicopters, were also present at the scene.
Johnson Lake, situated approximately 10 kilometers from Banff townsite near Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake, is a popular destination within the national park. This recent drowning incident marks the third confirmed fatality in the Bow Valley this year. Additionally, authorities in Canmore are investigating the death of a 52-year-old local man found in the Bow River on the same Sunday morning.
Earlier incidents in the area include drownings at Canmore’s Quarry Lake on August 1 and at Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park on May 1.