Elderly Man Dies After Iceboat Crash on Bay of Quinte Despite CPR Efforts
A 78-year-old man from Ameliasburgh, Ontario, tragically died after his iceboat crashed on the Bay of Quinte on Tuesday afternoon. Despite the quick response from witnesses and the immediate delivery of CPR, the man could not be revived.
Iceboats—much like sailboats—are equipped with skis or skates that allow them to glide at high speeds across frozen surfaces. While thrilling, this sport carries inherent risks, especially when ice conditions are unstable.
For the full original news report, you can read the CBC article here:
👉 Man dies in ice boat crash on Bay of Quinte
Sudden Crash on the Ice
According to Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the crash occurred around 3:40 p.m. when the iceboat struck a pressure crack near Rednersville Road in Ameliasburgh. The impact caused the front blade to jam, bringing the craft to a sudden and forceful stop.
A witness quickly put on a flotation suit and made his way across the ice to assist the pilot. CPR was started right away, and other bystanders helped bring the man back to shore. Paramedics continued resuscitation efforts, but the 78-year-old man was later pronounced dead. An autopsy will determine the final cause of death, though police say the incident is not considered suspicious.
Ameliasburgh is just south of Belleville, roughly 235 kilometres southwest of downtown Ottawa.
A Reminder About Ice Safety
Prince Edward County OPP reminded residents to monitor ice and snow conditions closely before venturing out. Fluctuating temperatures can quickly change ice thickness and cause hidden dangers like pressure cracks—the very kind that caused this tragic crash.
Whether you’re ice boating, fishing, skating, or snowmobiling, understanding ice safety and being prepared for emergencies is essential.
The Importance of CPR Training
This incident highlights the vital importance of knowing CPR. Early CPR can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival during cardiac emergencies or trauma. In this case, witnesses responded immediately—something every bystander should be prepared to do.
Emergencies can happen anywhere: on ice, in public spaces, at home, or at work. Having the training to act confidently in the first critical minutes can save a life.
If you want to be prepared to respond in an emergency, consider building your skills through certified CPR training. Calgary First Aid offers comprehensive CPR and AED courses designed to help you respond effectively and safely:
👉 https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
Enroll in CPR Training Today
Being proactive today could save a life tomorrow. Whether you’re new to first aid or refreshing your skills, CPR training provides essential knowledge for real-world emergencies.
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