Two people have drowned in separate incidents in Nanaimo on Wednesday, May 20, with one incident sparking a large search effort. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

large emergency response

Two drown in separate incidents at Nanaimo’s Departure Bay

May 21, 2026 | 10:37 AM

NANAIMO — Two people have drowned in what RCMP are saying were separate incidents on Wednesday night, prompting major search efforts

Mounties received a check-well-being call at around 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, for a woman who was seen on the water in Departure Bay.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said this sparked a large search effort, which included Nanaimo Search and Rescue crews, the Nanaimo Port Authority, and two aircraft from 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron from CFB Comox.

“Around 9 p.m., the woman was found deceased near Departure Bay beach. Life-saving measures were applied, but she was pronounced deceased. Foul play is not suspected.”

A BC Ferries vessel in the Departure Bay area at the time was also looking for the missing woman. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

large emergency response

Two drown in separate incidents at Nanaimo's Departure Bay

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While the search was underway, O’Brien said they received another call around 7:30 p.m. of an adult man in the water who appeared to be in distress near the Brechin Boat Launch in the 1200 block of Stewart Ave.

“Nanaimo [Port Authority] were actually on scene and managed to pull him from the water. Despite life-saving measures by BCHS, Nanaimo Harbour Patrol, he was also pronounced deceased. Foul play not suspected.”

He said both incidents have been turned over to the BC Coroners Service.

“We recognize these incidents were witnessed by a number of people from the public, and when you witness a sudden medical emergency, or loss of life, it can have a real impact on you, short-term and potentially long-term. Our Nanaimo Victim Services is available, they can provide confidential assistance to you, at 250-755-3100.”

Search and rescue crews could be seen off Departure Bay Beach Wednesday evening. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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by NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

Two drown in separate incidents at Nanaimo’s Departure Bay

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