Fort St James, B.C. – A teenaged girl has lost her life in a boating accident Friday near Fort St. James.

At approximately 9 am Friday, Fort St. James RCMP responded to a report of a sudden death along the north side of Stuart Lake near the Tl’azt’en First Nation (Binchie Reserve area).

Further investigation revealed that a group of five people were operating a small water craft with a gas powered motor heading from Fort St. James to the T’lazt’en First Nation via Stuart Lake. At some point on the trip, the boat capsized near Battleship Island.

One person, a 17 year old female, was located deceased at scene. The other four occupants were all  located and are safe.

Alcohol is believed to be a factor in this tragedy, along with lack of personal floatation devices being used by the persons involved. Fort James RCMP is assisting the BC Coroner’s Service with their investigation.

Fort St. James RCMP are reminding all persons operating personal water craft to ensure all occupants are wearing approved personal floatation devices and to not drink and drive on the water.