Authorities have confirmed the recovery of two paddleboarders’ bodies from Browning Lake in British Columbia’s Sea-to-Sky region. The incident occurred over the weekend, and the victims have been identified as Genesis Jeru Bague and Mariz Bello, a recently married couple originally from the Philippines.
Paddleboarding Incident Overview
The Squamish RCMP launched a search operation after receiving reports of the couple falling into the lake at approximately 3 p.m. PT on Saturday. Browning Lake is a popular destination located within Murrin Provincial Park.
Search and Recovery Efforts
A collaborative effort ensued, involving multiple agencies, including the Squamish Search and Rescue and RCMP helicopters. Despite the search operations, it wasn’t until Tuesday that RCMP divers located and recovered the bodies of the paddleboarders.
Victims’ Background
- Names: Genesis Jeru Bague and Mariz Bello
- Origin: Originally from the Philippines
- Status: Recently married
Genesis Hanzel Bague, the brother of Genesis Jeru Bague, shared with CBC News that his brother aspired to become a police officer in British Columbia. He noted the couple’s love for outdoor activities, including hiking and camping.
Community Response
In light of this tragic event, the community has expressed grief. Family members wish to share the couple’s story, emphasizing that their deaths resulted from an unfortunate accident.
As the area around Browning Lake remains closed to the public, the tragic incident highlights the potential dangers of water sports. Authorities continue to remind outdoor enthusiasts to always prioritize safety while enjoying nature.
