Woman Drowns While Tubing in Dangerous Section of Cowichan River on Vancouver Island

A tragic tubing incident on Vancouver Island has claimed the life of a woman in her early 50s, serving as a stark reminder that even popular recreational waterways can be extremely dangerous.

The incident occurred on a hazardous stretch of the Cowichan River, a river well known for tubing and summer recreation.

Tubing Trip Turns Into Tragedy

According to reports, the woman was tubing with friends when she passed a designated “pullout” zone and drifted into rougher water near Horseshoe Bend and Marie Canyon. This area is known for faster currents, undertows, and unpredictable water flow.

The woman attempted to reach the riverbank but fell from her tube and became trapped beneath the fast-moving water. A 33-year-old man who was with her managed to pull her from the river and immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until paramedics arrived.

Emergency Response and Investigation

Lake Cowichan RCMP and the B.C. Ambulance Service arrived at the scene around 3:30 p.m. Paramedics continued resuscitation efforts, and the woman was airlifted to Victoria General Hospital. Sadly, she was pronounced dead the following day.

Police and the B.C. Coroners Service are investigating the drowning. The woman’s name has not been released.

Previous Dangerous Incidents in the Area

Local authorities say this section of the Cowichan River has been the site of other serious incidents in the past. On Canada Day, a man tubing with friends nearly lost his life after becoming trapped under a partially submerged log. Witnesses were able to free him and perform CPR, ultimately saving his life.

Lake Cowichan Mayor Ross Forrest expressed concern following the recent death, noting that while the river is promoted for recreation, some sections are significantly more dangerous than others. Warning signs are posted advising tubers to exit the river before reaching the rapids.

Why Learning CPR Is So Important

Drowning emergencies can develop within seconds, leaving little time to wait for professional help. In these situations, bystander CPR can mean the difference between life and death.

CPR training is essential for anyone who spends time near water—whether at a river, lake, or swimming pool. Proper training helps people respond quickly, calmly, and effectively during emergencies.

Original News Source

This incident was originally reported by Vancouver Sun. You can read the full article here: 👉 Woman drowns while tubing in dangerous section of Cowichan River on Vancouver Island

Learn More: Water Emergencies and CPR

For additional information on drowning response and CPR techniques, visit these trusted resources:

Being prepared saves lives. Learning CPR equips you to act when every second counts.

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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