Search and rescue operations are ongoing in British Columbia following the disappearance of two paddleboarders near Squamish. The search for Genesis Jeru Bague and Mariz Bello continues after a tragic incident at Murrin Provincial Park on Saturday afternoon.
The couple was reportedly joining friends for a birthday party when the accident occurred. According to family members, the pair was on a paddleboard at Browning Lake around 3 p.m. PT when they fell into the water.
Details of the Incident
Witnesses and video footage indicate that the couple was initially relaxing on the paddleboard before they appeared to struggle. Genesis Hanzel Bague, the brother of Genesis Jeru Bague, noted that the situation escalated when the paddleboard flipped over.
The family reported that the couple began to panic and called out for help. While some individuals reportedly attempted to assist, the pair was not immediately located.
“They said that they called for help, they started yelling … I think a couple of people went there, but it took some time,” said Genesis Hanzel Bague.
Search and Recovery Efforts
A significant multi-agency response was launched following the report. The Squamish RCMP, Squamish Search and Rescue, and Squamish Fire Rescue were among the primary responders, alongside RCMP Air Services and B.C. Park rangers.
An RCMP underwater recovery team attended the scene later on Saturday evening. Although they employed sonar equipment and underwater cameras, the search was unsuccessful at that time.
A Significant Loss for the Community
The incident carries deep personal weight for the family, as the couple had recently moved to Vancouver from the Philippines. Having obtained their residency last year, they were reportedly focused on settling into their new lives and supporting family members abroad.
Genesis Jeru Bague, 33, was described by his brother as a disciplined person with a dream of joining the Vancouver police force. The couple was known to enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking and camping.
Looking Ahead
Murrin Provincial Park remains closed to the public as the situation is managed. Search teams are expected to return to the area on Tuesday to continue their efforts.
The continued search may involve further use of specialized equipment as authorities attempt to provide closure to the family. The outcome of these upcoming operations will be critical to the ongoing investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who are the missing paddleboarders? The missing individuals have been identified as Genesis Jeru Bague and Mariz Bello.
- Where did the incident take place? The accident occurred at Browning Lake in Murrin Provincial Park, near Squamish, B.C.
- When is the search expected to resume? Search teams are expected to return to the area on Tuesday.
How can outdoor recreational areas better manage the risks associated with sudden water-based accidents?
