Death of Tofino Surfer Took a Toll Says Man Who Attempted Rescue

A tragic surfing incident at Long Beach in Tofino, British Columbia, has left a lasting emotional impact on those who attempted to save a young man’s life. A 27-year-old surfer died at the scene despite immediate rescue efforts and prolonged CPR provided by trained first aid responders. The details of the incident were originally reported by CBC News and can be read in full

Death of Tofino surfer ‘took a toll,’ says man who attempted rescue.

Construction worker Vincent Mallaley, who is trained in first aid, was walking along Long Beach with his wife on what was meant to be a peaceful Saturday stroll. Ending up in the water was never part of the plan—until they noticed a commotion offshore and heard someone shouting that a surfer was drowning.

Immediate Rescue and CPR Efforts

Mallaley rushed into the water, where another passerby was already attempting to help. By the time they reached the surfer, he was unconscious and had suffered a deep gash to his cheek.

The two rescuers worked together to bring him ashore and immediately began CPR.Although the situation appeared dire, neither rescuer was willing to stop.“We looked at each other and said at the same time We’re not giving up on this guy,’” Mallaley recalled. The pair continued performing CPR for approximately 20 minutes. A park ranger eventually arrived with an automated external defibrillator (AED), which was deployed, but despite every effort, the young surfer could not be revived. RCMP later confirmed the 27-year-old man died at the scene.

Emotional Impact on Rescuers

Mallaley has provided first aid in fatal situations before, but he said this incident was particularly difficult to accept due to the victim’s young age and the intensity of the rescue effort.

“What was supposed to be a sunny walk along the beach turned into a desperate attempt to save a life,” he said. “Working on him for that long and not being able to save him took a toll on both of us.”

Situations like this highlight why proper CPR training is essential. Knowing how to respond quickly, confidently, and correctly during a drowning or cardiac emergency can make a critical difference. Programs such as CPR and AED training courses offered by Winnipeg First Aid help prepare individuals to act decisively when seconds matter most.

Dangerous Rip Currents at Long Beach

The incident occurred near Lovekin Rock, a well-known area of Long Beach that is known for powerful rip currents. According to Mallaley, even experienced surfers can be caught off guard by the strength of the undercurrents.

“If someone doesn’t know the waters and they’re not a strong swimmer, the rip current can pull them under,” he explained.

Mallaley hopes this tragedy will lead to improved safety signage and greater awareness of the hidden dangers along the coastline, helping prevent similar incidents in the future.

Learn More: First Aid & CPR Training in Winnipeg

Emergencies can happen anywhere—on the beach, at work, or in everyday life. Being trained in first aid and CPR can help you respond quickly and confidently 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.

👉 [View full credentials]🔗 View LinkedIn Profile

Last reviewed: March 2026

Serving Winnipeg and south Manitoba with the cheapest priced, highest quality first aid training, CPR and food safety courses since 2012 with a commitment to providing the best classes to Canadians.