PORT BURWELL, ONT. — A 35-year-old father from Woodstock has died after bravely rescuing his daughter from drowning at Port Burwell beach on Lake Erie over the weekend.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) said emergency crews were called to the beach in the Municipality of Bayham at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday following reports of two swimmers in distress.
“A father and daughter were swimming in the waters of Lake Erie when both became in distress,” OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk said. “The father recognized his daughter was in trouble and pushed her toward the shoreline, where two Good Samaritans were able to rescue her. I’m sad to say the father did not resurface above the water.”
The beach was closed following the incident as a search was conducted for the man. His body was later recovered.
Sgt. Sanchuk extended condolences on behalf of the police force: “I’d like to send out my deepest and sincerest condolences to all family members and friends affected by this tragedy. You are all in our thoughts.”
He also praised the quick actions of those nearby. “I’d like to thank the Good Samaritans who came to the aid of this man’s daughter. Because of them — and her father’s last act of selflessness — she is alive today.”
The full circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
This heartbreaking event serves as a sobering reminder of the risks posed by open waters and the profound love and sacrifice of a father who gave everything to save his child.