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Police identify Orillia drowning victim

Christopher Bellchambers, 42, succumbs to injuries following Saturday incident at Couchiching Beach Park
2021-06-19 Couchiching Beach incident 3
The government dock at Couchiching Beach Park was taped off Saturday while police investigated after a man was pulled from the water without vital signs.

NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA OPP
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Members of the Orillia Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a drowning at Couchiching Park in the City of Orillia. The victim has since been pronounced deceased.

On June 19, 2021, shortly after 6:00 p.m., emergency services were called to a drowning near the town dock at Couchiching Park. It was reported that a male had been located in the water without vital signs and that Good Samaritans were administering first-aid. The male was transported to local hospital by Emergency Medical Services with vital signs, but in critical condition. 

Tragically, the victim, Christopher BELLCHAMBERS, age 42, of Orillia, has since succumbed to his injuries. 

The Orillia OPP is reminding residents to be vigilant of their safety on the water. Wear a PFD, never swim alone, know your limits and stay within them.

The Orillia OPP is committed to serving our province, including the Townships of Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Severn and the City of Orillia, by protecting its citizens, upholding the law and preserving public safety. If you have any information about crime in our community, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or report minor occurrences online by visiting www.opp.ca/reporting. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit your information online at www.crimestopperssdm.com if you have any information on this crime or any other crime. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display and you will remain anonymous. Being anonymous, you will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.00.

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