July 25, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Prince Edward County, ON – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating after a three-year-old child tragically drowned at Sandbanks Provincial Park on Thursday evening, marking another heartbreaking incident in what officials say has been a sharp rise in drownings across eastern Ontario.
Police say they were called to the popular provincial park shortly after 5:30 p.m., when a toddler went missing while playing in a shallow area of water with family members.
According to police, bystanders located the child before emergency responders arrived. The child was immediately transported to hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, was pronounced dead.
Authorities have confirmed that the child’s identity will not be released, in an effort to respect the family’s privacy during this devastating time.
The incident comes as OPP marks Drowning Prevention Week, raising awareness amid a concerning rise in fatal water-related accidents. Officials note that the number of drownings in eastern Ontario this year has already more than doubled compared to the same time in 2024.
Sandbanks Provincial Park, located on the shores of Lake Ontario, is a major summer destination known for its expansive beaches, campgrounds, and family-friendly recreation. This tragedy has cast a somber mood over the community and sparked renewed calls for vigilance around water safety — especially when young children are involved.
OPP continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning in partnership with the Office of the Chief Coroner and Ontario Forensic Pathology Service.
They are also urging park visitors and Ontario residents to prioritize water safety and constant supervision when children are near or in water.
Anyone with additional information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Prince Edward County OPP.
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