On January 1, 2025, at approximately 9:05 pm, Thompson RCMP responded to a report of a snowmobile that had fallen through the ice near the Miles Hart bridge.

 

Officers responded immediately, along with Thompson Fire and Rescue. They were able to locate the two occupants of the snowmobile after they were advised by a RCMP Telecommunications operator to turn on their cell phone light.

 

A 20-year-old male, and 16-year-old female were on pieces of ice with water around them approximately 20-30 feet from the shore line. Their snowmobile was partially submerged in the water.

 

The male had already fallen into the river when he tried walking on the ice, but had been able to pull himself to safety.

 

Officers were able to throw their jackets to the stranded victims, as the temperature at the time of rescue was -21 degrees Celsius, with a windchill of -28.

 

A raft was brought down to the scene through difficult terrain to assist in the rescue.

 

There were no injuries, both were taken to hospital as a precaution and later released.

 

“This was a very dangerous, and challenging rescue given the freezing temperatures and time of night it occurred,” said Superintendent Paul Peddle, Manitoba North District Commander. “The officers responded quickly, along with Thompson Fire, and were all able to work together to bring both occupants to land safely for the best possible outcome.”