Sunday, April 18, 2004

The Sault Ste. Marie Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police reports one fatality as the result of two snowmachines going through the ice on Ranger Lake.

Two Sault Ste. Marie brothers in their mid 40’s were reported overdue after they failed to return to their camp on Ranger Lake yesterday evening. The OPP were called early this morning and initiated a search with their Helicopter.

Police found a place on the west branch of Ranger lake in an area commonly known as 10 Mile Bay, where it appeared two machines may have gone through the ice. Seen on the ice near the holes were two helmets and a snowmobile Jacket.

At 12:15 p.m. the OPP helicopter spotted one of the missing men on the shore of Ranger Lake with his dog. The man was very cold and is receiving medical attention. He was able to confirm the loss of his brother and fishing partner. The wearing of a floater suit is credited with saving the mans life.

The OPP Underwater Recovery Unit will attempt to recover the second man tomorrow morning.

The OPP are not releasing the names of the individuals involved to allow for extended family notification.

The police are reminding all persons to stay off any waterways due to extremely unstable ice conditions prevalent this time of year.