Good Samaritans honoured for saving woman after boat crash

Photo: RCMP

Aiden Godwin and RCMP superintendent Kara Triance

A group of Good Samaritans have been recognized and honoured for their selfless acts of bravery.

Kelowna RCMP says they received a report of a boat striking a dock at the Green Bay Bible Camp, sending a woman in the boat soaring into the water.

“Upon arrival, officers learned that an off-duty lifeguard from the Green Bay Bible Camp, Aiden Godwin took control of the chaotic scene and immediately swam towards the unconscious female through debris and leaking fuel,” said RCMP spokesperson Const. Mike Della-Paolera.

Godwin found the woman floating unconscious and he managed to get her to shore while making sure she could breathe by supporting her head and neck.

Once the pair reached the shore, a group of Good Samaritans, including an emergency medical technician in training rallied to assist. The woman received life-saving first aid until an ambulance arrived on the scene and transported the patient to hospital.

Kelowna RCMP regional detachment officer in charge, superintendent Kara Triance, took time to personally congratulate the Good Samaritans at a small lakeside ceremony.

Godwin was presented with a plaque recognizing his efforts to save the woman's life.

“Our community is fortunate to have people like Aiden who rise above the crowds with their courage and valor. On behalf of the Kelowna Regional Royal Canadian Mounted Police and your community, we thank you Aiden,” said superintendent Kara Triance.

Five other lifeguards and the EMT in training, who is on staff at the camp, were also recognized for their actions in assisting once the injured party was brought to shore.

Photo: RCMP