Eleven people, including several youths, were pulled from the waters of Burrard Inlet on July 5 after their canoe capsized off Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver, prompting a rapid response from RCMP marine and tactical units.
According to the news release, RCMP Tactical Marine Operations Group (TMOG) officers patrolling Burrard Inlet picked up a distress call on Marine VHF Channel at approximately 3:30 p.m. reporting the overturned canoe. Four TMOG vessels responded immediately, alongside officers deployed to the Vancouver area for FIFA World Cup 2026 security operations.
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While en route, RCMP Emergency Response Team officers coordinated with BC Emergency Health Services and the West Vancouver Police Department to support the response.
Officers arriving on scene found all 11 occupants clinging to the large overturned canoe. Crews began pulling people from the water immediately, deploying a Tactical Rescue Diver to assist occupants who were struggling to stay afloat. All 11 were recovered and brought aboard RCMP vessels.
According to the news release, initial medical assessments found the occupants suffering from cold-water exposure but no major injuries. Tactical Rescue Divers then confirmed no one remained trapped beneath the canoe and helped tow the vessel to shore.
“This incident highlights how quickly a day on the water can turn into an emergency,” said Cpl. Brett Urano, RCMP spokesperson. “We are grateful that everyone was safely recovered and would like to remind boaters that wearing a properly fitted life jacket can significantly increase survival and safety in the event of an unexpected capsize.”
The RCMP thanked BC Emergency Health Services and the West Vancouver Police Department for their assistance, and urged anyone heading onto the water to carry approved life jackets for all occupants and prepare for changing conditions.
