A search operation is ongoing in Lethbridge, Alberta, after a 17-year-old boy is presumed drowned in the Oldman River on the evening of June 18, 2025. The teenager disappeared near the High Level Bridge while attempting to swim across the river. Emergency services responded promptly to witness reports, initiating coordinated land and water search efforts that continue as authorities treat the case as a suspected drowning. Local officials have issued warnings about the river’s hazards, highlighting safety concerns for residents and visitors.
Authorities in Lethbridge have launched an extensive search operation following the disappearance of a 17-year-old boy in the Oldman River. The incident occurred on the evening of June 18, 2025, near the High Level Bridge, a known crossing point over the river. According to eyewitnesses, the teenager was attempting to swim across the river when he went missing. Emergency personnel, including local police, fire services, and specialized water rescue teams, responded quickly to the emergency calls, coordinating efforts to locate the missing individual both along the riverbanks and in the water.
Search and Rescue Efforts
The search operation has involved multiple agencies working in collaboration to cover a wide area of the river and surrounding terrain. Rescue divers have conducted underwater searches, while ground teams have scanned accessible shorelines. The use of drones and other technology has also been reported to assist in locating any signs of the teenager. As of the latest updates, no confirmed sightings have been made, and the boy remains missing, leading authorities to treat the case as a presumed drowning.
Safety Concerns and Warnings
Local officials have emphasized the dangers posed by the Oldman River, especially during the late spring and summer months when water levels and currents can be unpredictable. The High Level Bridge area, while popular for recreational activities, is known for strong currents and cold water temperatures that can quickly overwhelm swimmers. Authorities have issued warnings urging residents and visitors to avoid swimming in the river, particularly at unsupervised locations, and to exercise caution when near any bodies of water.
Community Impact and Response
The disappearance has deeply affected the Lethbridge community, with local leaders expressing concern and extending support to the family of the missing teenager. Community groups have mobilized to help disseminate safety information and assist with search efforts where possible. The incident underscores ongoing challenges related to water safety in the region and highlights the importance of public awareness and preventive measures to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
The ongoing search for the missing 17-year-old boy in the Oldman River remains a priority for authorities and the Lethbridge community. Despite extensive efforts involving multiple agencies and technologies, the teenager has not yet been located, with the case being treated as a presumed drowning. This incident has brought renewed attention to the hazards associated with the Oldman River, reinforcing the need for heightened public awareness and caution around water activities. Local officials and community members continue to support search operations and emphasize preventive measures to protect residents and visitors from similar risks moving forward.
