A 22-year-old woman, who was a former Brampton student, is believed to have drowned after being swept into the ocean off the coast of Newfoundland.
Sandeep Kaur, an international student from India, was visiting Cape Spear near St. John’s with a male companion on January 15 when tragedy struck. According to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, a powerful wave knocked Kaur into the frigid waters of the North Atlantic. Her companion reportedly jumped in to try to save her, but both were overcome by the rough conditions.
Despite extensive search efforts by multiple rescue teams, Kaur’s body has not been recovered. Signs posted at Cape Spear warn visitors of the hazardous conditions near the shoreline, but it is believed that Kaur and her companion may not have fully understood the dangers due to a language barrier.
Kaur arrived in Canada in 2022 as an international student and lived in Brampton, where she earned a diploma in tourism. She was granted permanent residency and moved to Newfoundland last fall, where she had been working at a United Parcel Service (UPS) facility in St. John’s.
Her family, still reeling from the tragedy, is hoping for continued search efforts to recover her body. They are also awaiting further details from police to better understand the circumstances of her disappearance.
“We are devastated and hoping for closure,” a family spokesperson said.
The incident has sent shockwaves through both the Brampton and Newfoundland communities. Kaur’s companion, who was also a former Brampton resident, survived the ordeal but has not been publicly identified. The nature of their relationship remains unclear.
Cape Spear, known for its rugged beauty, is a popular tourist destination but is also notorious for its dangerous waves and unpredictable weather. Authorities have reiterated the importance of heeding warning signs and staying a safe distance from the water’s edge.
As search efforts continue, Kaur’s family and friends are holding onto hope that her body will be recovered, allowing them to lay her to rest. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of safety precautions, especially in unfamiliar environments.