Man Pulled from North Saskatchewan River Given CPR, Later Dies

A man who was pulled from the North Saskatchewan River after failing to resurface was given cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by his friends but sadly later died in a healthcare facility, police confirmed.

According to a report published by the Edmonton Journal, the incident unfolded late Thursday evening near a popular boat launch along the river.

Watery Ordeal Near Laurier Park

Police responded to a call around 9 p.m. after reports that a man had dove from an inflatable boat into the river near the Laurier Park boat launch. Several people were canoeing toward the launch when they saw the man jump into the water only metres from shore, while his friends stood nearby on land.

Initially, onlookers believed the man was swimming toward shore. However, when he did not resurface after several minutes, concern quickly grew and his friends began searching the water.

Witness Charlene Engler said the situation escalated suddenly. “We thought he was just swimming to shore,” she explained. Moments later, she saw his body floating face down in the river.

CPR Efforts at the Scene

The man’s friends immediately pulled him from the water and began CPR, continuing lifesaving efforts until emergency crews arrived. Despite their quick response, Engler said she overheard paramedics state the man had no pulse as he was placed into an ambulance.

The scene was described as emotional and heartbreaking, with the man’s mother present and visibly distraught. “It was just a sad, sad story,” Engler said.

According to friends, the man was 33 years old and described as a strong swimmer. He was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident. Police have not released the man’s identity and confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious.

For full details about the incident, you can read the original report from the Edmonton Journal here:
👉 Man Pulled from North Saskatchewan River Given CPR, Later Dies

Why CPR Training Matters

Water-related emergencies can unfold quickly and without warning. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical skill that helps maintain circulation and oxygen to vital organs during cardiac and breathing emergencies.

While CPR cannot save every life, early intervention can significantly improve survival chances until professional help arrives. Learning how to respond in emergencies such as drowning or sudden cardiac arrest prepares individuals to act confidently when seconds matter.

If you’re interested in learning these essential lifesaving skills, consider enrolling in CPR and AED training through Winnipeg First Aid, which offers hands-on courses designed for real-world emergencies:

Being prepared can make a meaningful difference during emergencies. First aid and CPR training equip you with practical skills to respond effectively when lives are at risk.

For more information about water rescue and CPR, visit the following resources:

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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