Teen Dies at Lynn Canyon as Cliff Jumpers Continue to Take Risks: A Sobering Reminder of Why CPR Training Matters
Just one day after a 16-year-old American teen tragically died at Lynn Canyon, thrill-seekers were still seen jumping from the steep cliffs into the icy, fast-moving waters below. The incident, first reported by CTV Vancouver, highlights ongoing safety concerns in the popular North Vancouver park.
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👉 Days after boy dies at Lynn Canyon, cliff jumpers continue to tempt fate
A Tragic Accident at Twin Falls
According to police, the teen—visiting family from Pennsylvania—was swept beneath the surface by strong currents and carried over a waterfall in the Twin Falls area. Although he was not cliff-jumping at the time, his death occurred in the same dangerous waters where many others continue to take high-risk jumps.
Bystanders acted quickly, pulling the unresponsive teen from the water and immediately starting CPR. Emergency responders later performed a rope rescue and transported him to Lions Gate Hospital, but he tragically did not survive.
This was not the first fatality in the area. Just a year earlier, a 17-year-old boy from Port Coquitlam drowned after bypassing a fence and cliff-jumping near the suspension bridge.
“We Want to Remind the Public of the Dangers”
Authorities expressed deep concern that, despite serious accidents, warning signs, and physical barriers, young people continue to ignore the risks.
“We want to remind the public of the dangers of these waters and abide by the cautionary signs and fences that are posted,”
— Cst. Brett Cuningham
Yet, even after the fatal incident, some visitors told CTV they intended to continue cliff-jumping. Many said they were “strong swimmers” or claimed to know where it was “safe,” but the reality is that cold water, underwater hazards, and unpredictable currents make Lynn Canyon dangerous even for experienced swimmers.
Police clarified that while cliff-jumping is hazardous, it is not illegal, and individuals take on full responsibility for the risks associated with it.
When Emergencies Strike, CPR Can Save a Life
The quick actions of the bystanders who initiated CPR were exactly what emergency professionals recommend. In drowning and cardiac arrest emergencies, early CPR is one of the biggest factors in survival.
Although the teen did not survive, the immediate response was his best chance—a reminder that emergencies can unfold in seconds, long before paramedics arrive.
CPR saves lives.
Having the skills to step in during a crisis could make all the difference for someone in need.
If you want to be prepared to help during a life-threatening emergency, consider taking a certified CPR and AED training course.
👉 Learn essential life-saving skills with a CPR course in Calgary:
https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
Be Prepared to Act: Learn CPR & First Aid
Whether you hike, swim, travel, or simply want to be ready to help others, first aid and CPR training provide the confidence and skills needed when seconds matter.
Learn More About CPR
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