Toddler airlifted after drowning at Whonnock Lake near Maple Ridge

A 2-year-old was airlifted to hospital after falling into Whonnock Lake near Maple Ridge on Monday, July 27, around 8 p.m.

Maple Ridge RCMP responded to a medical emergency call at the 27800 block of 113 Avenue and found the child in distress. Officers provided life-saving measures before paramedics from BC Emergency Health Services arrived. The child was transported to hospital by air ambulance with critical care paramedics.

BC EHS deployed an ambulance with primary care paramedics, an advanced care paramedic response unit, a paramedic specialist, a paramedic supervisor, and an air ambulance crew to the scene. The child remains hospitalized in critical condition.

Police secured the area and took statements from witnesses. "The investigation is still in its early stages," officers said. "Our thoughts are with the child and their family at this time."

Whonnock Lake is one of the City of Maple Ridge's most popular summer destinations and frequently reaches capacity on hot days. The lake has a roped-off swimming area but no lifeguards. The city asks visitors to swim only in designated areas, follow posted safety signs, and supervise children around bodies of water.

Maple Ridge RCMP encouraged residents to prioritize water safety and said they will maintain a presence on local waterways this summer following several water-related incidents across the region. Anyone with information is asked to contact Maple Ridge RCMP at 604-463-6251, file# 2026-14366. Victim Services support is available to those affected.