Thetis Lake drowning recovery has brought both heartbreak and relief for the family of a young man whose body was recovered after days of searching.
The 19-year-old, identified by family as Anthony, went missing on Thursday, September 4, after entering the waters of Upper Thetis Lake near View Royal. Witnesses saw him go under but he did not resurface. Despite attempts from bystanders, no one was able to reach him in time.
Authorities confirmed that emergency services were quickly alerted following the incident. West Shore RCMP officers, along with BC Emergency Health Services, regional parks staff, and members of the View Royal Fire Rescue team, arrived to conduct an extensive search. Crews worked late into the evening, using specialized equipment to sweep the area.
As night fell, recovery efforts had to be paused for safety reasons. The RCMP Underwater Recovery Team joined the search on Friday, continuing the effort to locate the missing teenager.
The search was long and difficult, but the outcome finally brought some closure. On Sunday evening, the family shared that Anthony’s body had been found. According to the RCMP, the recovery was made on September 7 around 4 p.m. in Upper Thetis Lake.
For the family, the discovery marked the end of a painful waiting period. In a heartfelt message posted online, Anthony’s mother, Nami Hewett, expressed her gratitude to the community. She said the support, prayers, and help from friends, neighbors, and strangers had given the family strength during the search.
She wrote that having her son’s body returned was something words could not fully describe. Hewett also thanked everyone who contributed, whether by joining the search, offering equipment, or simply sending messages of support. She noted that the outpouring of kindness had been overwhelming and deeply appreciated.
The recovery also highlighted the coordinated effort of multiple emergency response teams. The View Royal Fire Department, BC Emergency Health Services, regional parks officials, and specialized RCMP units all worked together to ensure that the search continued as efficiently and safely as possible.
Authorities have not released further details about the exact circumstances that led to the drowning. The area around Thetis Lake is a popular swimming and recreational spot, attracting many visitors, especially in late summer. However, incidents such as this serve as a reminder of the risks that open water can pose.
Safety officials often stress the importance of being cautious when swimming in lakes and rivers. Even strong swimmers can face sudden difficulties due to cold water, currents, or exhaustion. Community leaders encourage visitors to stay close to designated swimming areas, avoid swimming alone, and use flotation devices whenever possible.
In this case, despite quick action by bystanders and professional responders, the tragedy could not be prevented. Yet the community response demonstrated solidarity and compassion. Many residents came forward to assist in the search or provide comfort to the family.
The family has asked for privacy as they grieve, but they have also continued to thank those who supported them in the most difficult days. For them, the recovery of Anthony’s body has provided a measure of peace, allowing them to begin the process of healing and remembrance.
The Thetis Lake drowning recovery has now closed one chapter of this heartbreaking story. While the pain of loss remains, the family holds onto the comfort of community support and the knowledge that Anthony has been brought home.
