Ottawa Police Service members and emergency crews were called to Nicolls Island Road late last night after reports of four youths who had fallen through ice on the Rideau River.
The first call came in at approximately 9:45 p.m.
Two of the youths were immediately rescued from the water and were taken to CHEO by Ottawa Paramedics. Two more youths – 16 year old and 17 year old males – were still missing and believed to be in the water.
A rescue operation including a surface and water search in very difficult conditions continued through the night.
The Ottawa Police Marine Unit and Ottawa Fire crews searched the area and police divers later recovered the body of one of the missing youths deceased.
The search for the second youth had to be paused overnight and will commence this morning.
We have offered supports to the loved ones of the youths. This tragedy affects us all.