Tragically, a 32-year old man passed away yesterday evening in Long Lake in the city of Yellowknife. According to witness reports, the man had been paddleboarding in the area. First responders tried to revive the man after arriving on scene but were not successful. Officials have not released the name of the victim and police said the investigation remains ongoing.
“On August 21st at approximately 7:45p.m. the Yellowknife RCMP received a report of a possible drowning at Long Lake. It was reported to police that a person had been paddleboarding when they went under the water and did not resurface,” said Yellowknife police.
Officers reported that when they arrived at the site on the shores of the lake, the fire department and emergency medical services were on scene responding. The victim was recovered from the water by members of the fire department. Despite lifesaving efforts by first responders on scene the victim could not be revived.
Yellowknife police conducting the investigation have not named the victim who is described as a 32-year-old male.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing in partnership with the Coroner’s Service.
In a statement issued this afternoon, Mayor Ben Hendriksen of Yellowknife addressed the incident and expressed a message of condolences to the victim’s family:
‘It is with heavy hearts that I address the tragic incident that occurred at Long Lake yesterday evening
“On Thursday, August 21, 2025, at approximately 7:28 p.m., the Yellowknife Fire Division received a report of a paddle boarder who had fallen into the water near the boat launch at Long Lake. Our emergency responders acted swiftly, deploying a rescue boat and conducting search operations. After approximately one hour, they located the individual and brought them to shore, where life-saving measures were immediately administered before transport to Stanton Territorial Hospital.
“Despite the dedicated efforts of our first responders and medical professionals, we were informed this morning that the individual was pronounced deceased. On behalf of the City of Yellowknife and our entire community, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy.
“I want to commend the professionalism and swift response of our Yellowknife Fire Division personnel, who worked tirelessly in their rescue efforts. Their commitment to serving our community, even in the most challenging circumstances, exemplifies the dedication of our first responders.”
The mayor said the city is co-operating with any ongoing investigations regarding the incident.
