Woman Dies After Car Plunges Into River Near Montreal

Lethbridge Resident Credits Integrated Response Model After Surviving Heart Attack

A tragic early-morning accident in St-Charles-sur-Richelieu, approximately 50 kilometres northeast of Montreal, claimed the life of a 38-year-old woman after her vehicle plunged into the Richelieu River.

According to a report published by the Montreal Gazette, the incident occurred just before 2 a.m. when the woman’s car struck a hydro pole, veered off the roadway, and flipped upside down into the river.
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Woman dies after car plunges into river east of Montreal

What Happened

Neighbours were alerted after hearing a loud crash and immediately contacted police. Moments later, residents noticed their electricity had been cut off, caused by the impact with the hydro pole.

A Sûreté du Québec (SQ) officer was the first to arrive on scene. Without hesitation, the officer entered the dark, murky river, where the vehicle was submerged in approximately four feet of cold water. He broke the driver’s side window in an effort to locate the woman but was unable to find her inside the vehicle.

Due to the extreme cold, the officer was forced to exit the water and was later treated for hypothermia, according to SQ communications officer Sgt. Daniel Thibodeau.

After the vehicle was towed from the river, emergency responders discovered the woman in the back seat. Rescue teams immediately attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at a hospital. The victim was a resident of Sorel.

Investigation Ongoing

Investigators are continuing to determine what caused the woman to lose control of her vehicle. Authorities stated that all possibilities remain under consideration, including driver fatigue, a sudden medical emergency, or an unexpected distraction.

Why CPR Training Matters

This tragic incident highlights how quickly unexpected emergencies can occur. Immediate CPR can help maintain blood flow to vital organs and improve survival chances until advanced medical care arrives.

While not every outcome can be changed, fast action by trained bystanders can make a critical difference in cardiac and drowning-related emergencies. Learning CPR equips everyday people with the confidence and skills needed to respond when seconds matter.

Residents interested in learning these life-saving skills can explore CPR and AED training courses offered by Winnipeg First Aid.

Be Prepared to Respond

First aid and CPR training prepare individuals to act during emergencies at home, on the road, or in public spaces. Proper training helps reduce panic and allows responders to provide immediate care while waiting for emergency services.

Learn More About CPR

For additional information about CPR and its importance, visit the following trusted 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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