(INNISFIL, ON) – On July 1, 2026, at approximately 5:10 p.m., South Simcoe Police received a report of a male who had been on a paddleboard and was believed to be in distress on Lake Simcoe near Mapleview Drive in the Town of Innisfil.
At the time of the incident, weather conditions had deteriorated rapidly, with heavy rain and strong winds creating hazardous conditions on the water. There was concern that the male had become stranded and was unable to safely return to shore.
At approximately 5:35 p.m., members of the South Simcoe Police Service Marine Unit, assisted by the York Regional Police Marine Unit, launched an extensive search of the area. During the search, the paddleboard was located, prompting officers to expand their search efforts from that location. The York Regional Police Helicopter also assisted in the search.
At approximately 8:00 p.m., the York Regional Police helicopter located the body of a 38-year-old male in the water. As the investigation progressed, officers determined that the male was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing. The identity of the deceased will not be released out of respect for the family’s privacy.
This is a tragic outcome, and the South Simcoe Police Service extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.
PR26019683
-30-
Media Contact: Samah Othman ,Corporate Communications Specialist
Email: samah.othman@southsimcoepolice.ca