Stay informed with the LNN Daily Newsletter
(RCMP)

RCMP confirm death following drowning at Stafford Lake

Jul 28, 2020 | 10:21 AM

COALDALE, AB – RCMP in Coaldale have confirmed a drowning at Stafford Lake on Monday.

Stafford Lake is located about 10 minutes east of Coaldale, just south of Highway 3.

Just before 5:00 p.m. on July 27, the Coaldale RCMP, Coaldale Fire Department, Coalhurst Fire Department and the Lethbridge Fire Water Rescue Team responded to a report of a missing 20-year-old man presumed drown in Stafford Lake.

Officials gathered information to mark down an approximate search area on the south part of the lake. A drone was used to narrow down the search location.

This helped divers with the Lethbridge Fire Water Rescue Team locate the missing person. Unfortunately, the 20-year-old was deceased.

The man was brought to shore just after 9:00 p.m., as daylight was being lost.

Coaldale RCMP say the Calgary Medical Examiners Office has been notified and will be the lead on the investigation.

“Our thoughts are with the family, friends and community members during this sad and difficult time,” said Staff Sergeant Glenn Henry with the Coaldale detachment.

“I would like to thank the first responders for their quick professional response and the community members who assisted where they could.”

Coaldale RCMP are reminding users of water recreational areas to always use safety devices such as life jackets and personal flotation devices. The name of the deceased male will not be released.