Driver Rescued After Plunging into Eastern Ontario River, Later Charged

Police tape is seen in a file photo. Scott Olson/Getty Images

Ottawa police are investigating after a vehicle plunged through the ice of the Rideau River in the city’s south end on Jan. 16.

According to a statement from the Ottawa Police Service, the sole occupant was rescued by quick-thinking locals, who used a kayak to bring her to safety. The driver reportedly did not sustain any injuries.

Ottawa Police subsequently charged the driver, whose name has yet to be released, with one count of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle under the Criminal Code of Canada.

Ottawa Police also noted the vehicle remains submerged “and could pose a hazard for curious onlookers venturing out on the ice.” The police added that the ice in this part of the river is relatively thin compared to other areas.

“Ice conditions at this time of the year can be unpredictable. The Ottawa Police Service would like to remind residents to stay off the ice and remember ‘No Ice is Safe Ice,’” the statement said.

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The nearly-averted tragedy isn’t the first such incident to occur along the Rideau River, located in Eastern Ontario.

On May 15, 2021, 24-year-old Jesse Tessier fell into the water at the Prince of Wales Falls, a cascade of artificial waterfalls on the Rideau River.

The Regional Coroner’s Office later confirmed that the lifeless body pulled from the river was that of Tessier.