COQUITLAM (NEWS 1130) – Mounties in Coquitlam have confirmed a body found yesterday in Buntzen Lake is that of a 19-year-old from Surrey who disappeared while swimming Tuesday afternoon.

RCMP say the body was found at about 6 p.m. on Wednesday in about 40 metres of water. He was located about 100 metres from shore.

“There’s no indication of foul play,” says Cpl. Michael McLaughlin. “It does appear that the man was out there, swimming with his friends and was using a novelty flotation device. Unfortunately, that device was not enough to keep him afloat.”

He adds an autopsy will be done.

Buntzen Lake has re-opened after being closed for the last two days, as crews looked for the man.

With many people heading to lakes and rivers to cool off in the summer months, McLaughlin says this sad outcome should serve as a reminder to all:

“Personal floatation devices (PFDs) and good judgement can save your life. And it it can save the lives of your children. Please, let’s do our best to make this summer as safe as possible.”

– With files from Dean Recksiedler