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Charge laid after 2023 fatal Lake Koocanusa UTV incident
On July 3, 2023 at 2:21 a.m., Elk Valley Regional RCMP was alerted of a “marine incident/ sudden death” on Lake Koocanusa which was sent from BC Ambulance.
It was reported that a side-by-side (UTV) had capsized and a person was trapped under water. It was learned upon arrival at the scene located off Kikomun-Newgate Road area that the passenger remained trapped in the UTV upside down in water.
The driver, a 35-year-old Alberta man, had remained on scene and after the initial investigation was arrested, then transported from the area to the Fernie RMCP office where he provided a warned statement and was released by way of an Undertaking – which was later nullified due to the length of the ongoing investigation.
The victim was identified as a 29-year-old Cranbrook resident.
A detailed and lengthy investigation was completed, including a search warrant and multiple statements with a number of witnesses, with determination made after review by Crown Counsel that the driver of the UTV had been negligent in his role involving the death of his passenger in the UTV, reported S/Sgt. Svend Nielsen, Elk Valley RCMP Detachment commander.
As a result, on August 8, one count of Criminal Negligence Causing Death has been sworn against Daniel Antcil of Alberta in this matter.
A summons was requested and served on the accused with a first appearance court date in Fernie Law Courts on September 12.
“Due to this matter now being before the courts, no further details will be provided by the Elk Valley Regional RCMP. Elk Valley Regional RCMP continue to support the family of the victim and offer our condolences on the loss of their family and friend,” said S/Sgt. Nielsen.
“We also continue to improve our service to the Lake Koocanusa, Grasmere and South Country community by land and boat patrols being completed on a regular basis to improve public safety. We have dedicated several days to conducting boat checks, ensuring compliance with Transport Canada safety regulations and federal and provincial liquor laws as well as Criminal Code violations, such as impaired operation of a vessel on Lake Koocanusa.
“Our land patrols continue to focus on road safety working with our partners in BC Highway Patrol and other provincial partners to target high risk areas along the South Country traffic corridors. We continue to appreciate all of the public support while undertaking these directives.”
e-KNOW file photo
e-KNOW
