‘Serious incident’ at Cultus Lake Waterpark leaves over 10 children injured

There was a significant emergency response to British Columbia’s biggest waterpark shortly before noon on Monday.

Mounties, paramedics and other first responders were called to Cultus Lake Waterpark, just outside Chilliwack, around 11:20 am.

An RCMP release explains that medical care was provided to 12 individuals, and the nature of their injuries are reported to be serious but non-life-threatening.

According to Port Coquitlam mayor Brad West, 11 students from Minnekhada Middle School in Port Coquitlam were among the injured, but all “are in stable condition.”

All victims from today’s incident were transported to hospital for further assessment and treatment, which included the involvement of two air ambulances.

“Our priority from the outset has been the safety and well-being of those involved,” said Cpl. Carmen Kiener from the Upper Fraser Valley RCMP. “This appears to be an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing risk to the public.”

Kiener added: “First responders acted quickly to secure the area, provide care and ensure all individuals received the medical attention they required.”

Police were mum on the details of the incident, but said WorkSafeBC has taken over conduct of the probe and RCMP investigators are providing assistance.

“At this time, there is no indication that the event was caused by a person, and investigators do not believe it to be the result of deliberate human action,” the RCMP statement noted.

A statement from Cultus Lake Waterpark issued Monday evening explained that the “serious incident” happened in a queuing area near one of the rides around 11:05 am.

“We are deeply saddened by the incident which occurred today resulting in injuries to a number of guests visiting the park, including children,” the statement read.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims injured and families affected by this unfortunate event.”

The waterpark announced a 48-hour closure to allow for a “thorough and independent” investigation to be conducted.

“We are fully cooperating with the authorities through the process of investigation and assessment,” the statement added. “We are determined to ensure that something like this does not happen within our facility again.”