A tragic drowning in Kamloops, British Columbia has taken the life of a 27-year-old international student, leaving friends and university staff in mourning. Jatin Garg, who had arrived in Canada last summer to study business at Thompson Rivers University (TRU), lost his life while trying to retrieve a volleyball from the fast-moving Thompson River.
Garg’s close friend, Anant Kaul, described him as more than just a friend. “He was like my brother,” Kaul said. The two had known each other for 12 years. Kaul said the news of Garg’s death was almost impossible to believe. “All I could think of was how hard it would be for his parents, his little brother, and the rest of the family,” he added.
According to Kamloops police, Garg disappeared on the evening of July 6 while playing volleyball with friends near Overlander Park. Witnesses say he entered the river to get the ball, but the current quickly swept him away. His body was found a few days later near McArthur Island Park, located several kilometres from where the incident occurred.
Kaul said Garg did not know how to swim, and when he started struggling in the water, two of his friends went in to help. However, they also needed assistance from bystanders. While those two were rescued, no one could reach Garg in time.
“People around tried everything they could. They saved the others, but they couldn’t find Jatin,” Kaul explained. Remembering his friend, Kaul said, “He always had a smile. His strength and kindness touched everyone who met him.”
The tragedy has led Kaul to begin raising funds to help send Garg’s body back to India so that his family can perform the last rites according to their traditions.
Thompson Rivers University expressed deep sorrow over the loss. TRU President Airini shared that the university has been in close contact with Garg’s family and is offering counselling services for students and staff who have been affected.
“When our community faces loss, we stand together. We support each other with full hearts,” said Airini.
She added that the university is working to improve awareness around water safety, especially for international students who may not be familiar with the risks involved in local rivers and lakes. TRU currently offers a free water safety course designed specifically for newcomers. The course aims to give students more confidence around water and teaches essential skills for avoiding dangerous situations.
Water safety has become a growing concern in recent years as more international students and new residents explore Canada’s natural landscapes. Fast rivers, cold water, and sudden currents can surprise even those with basic swimming skills.
Authorities continue to stress the importance of learning about water safety before swimming or entering rivers. They also recommend that people avoid swimming in areas without lifeguards and always use life jackets when near unfamiliar bodies of water.
As the community continues to grieve, many remember Jatin Garg not just as a student, but as a kind and driven young man who brought joy to those around him. His sudden loss has left a gap in the lives of friends, classmates, and his family thousands of miles away.
Efforts to raise awareness about water safety in Kamloops and beyond are now gaining new urgency, with hopes that no more lives will be lost to preventable drownings.
