Local Community Advertising
The body of the kayaker who was presumed to have drowned in Kalamalka Lake during the windstorm on July 24 was recovered by the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team today.
Mounties say Eli Buruca, 26, was found in deep water at the north end of the lake in Coldstream, and a dedicated group of volunteers was pivotal in locating him.
Buruca was with a group of kayakers who were on Kalamalka Lake when the storm blew in, and despite the rough conditions, they were able to land on the west side of the lake.
In an attempt to paddle back across the lake to Kalamalka Beach, Buruca left the group and was later reported missing, according to the RCMP.
“Our sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” said Cpl. Tania Finn of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. “We would like to thank the efforts of all those who assisted with the search, especially the Ralston family who traveled to the Okanagan.”
The search for the missing captain of the fishing vessel continues on Okanagan Lake near Ellison Provincial Park with the assistance of the Gene and Sandra Ralston, who are a married couple in their 70s from Idaho and come to the Okanagan upon request to help recover drowning victims.
Mounties are asking the public to be mindful of their efforts when boating in the area by giving them a wide berth.
Local Community Advertising