Two-year-old dies after Ottawa River rescue: police

An Ottawa police vehicle parked on a road during a water rescue operation on the Ottawa River. May 8, 2026. (Josh Marano/CTV News Ottawa)

Ottawa police say the two-year-old who was rescued from the Ottawa River on Friday evening died in hospital.

An extensive rescue effort involving paramedics, police and firefighters from Ottawa and Gatineau was launched shortly before 7 p.m. after the toddler was reported missing near the Kichi Zibi Mikan.

Approximately 40 minutes later, the child was brought ashore. They were taken to the hospital in critical condition where they were later pronounced dead.

“Our hearts are with the child’s family, loved ones, witnesses, and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident,” police wrote in a Saturday morning new release.

“This was an incredibly difficult call for everyone involved, including the first responders who worked tirelessly in the search-and-rescue efforts.”

Paramedics say emergency crews attended near the Chief William Commanda Bridge, but the operation moved along the Ottawa River.

Gatineau firefighters say a drone, an airplane and more than four boats were used to assist in the water rescue. Police officers also kept watch along the riverbank. The Ottawa Police Air Support Unit ultimately helped locate the child.

Ottawa police are investigating the incident.

“As is standard practice in incidents involving the death of a young child, the Ottawa Police Service’s Homicide Unit has carriage of the investigation, alongside the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit,” police wrote.

“Support services have been made available for the child’s family and the emergency personnel involved in the response.”

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