A 53-year-old man was swept away in Shuswap River near Sugar Lake in Cherryville and drowned over the weekend.

Trying to swim across and back, the man entered the river on Friday, June 14 around 5 p.m.

He made it across successfully but upon his return the fast-moving water took him downstream and out of sight from his companions.

Despite searching for over three-hours, the group were unable to locate their friend and advised police, said Cpl. Tania Finn of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. It was through the efforts of Vernon Search and Rescue that the body of the man was discovered the following day. Our sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.

This time of year, RCMP warn that the fast-moving water can be unpredictable and dangerous. As the weather heats up, everyone is reminded to be safe and use extra caution in and around our lakes and rivers.