A 67-year-old scuba diver lost his life while attempting to recover a submerged vehicle from the Erieau marina waters on March 18. Authorities with the Chatham-Kent Police Service have classified the incident as a tragic accident following a thorough investigation.
Details of the Incident
Gary Smith went missing around 11:30 a.m. on March 18. The Ontario Provincial Police’s underwater search and recovery unit discovered his body the following morning. Officers at the scene gathered evidence, including one of his diving tanks.
Background on the Submerged Vehicle
The vehicle Smith aimed to retrieve had sunk in the Erieau marina last November. Investigators determined the driver mistakenly pressed the gas pedal instead of the brakes, causing it to plunge into the water. Two women, aged 18 and 20, escaped unharmed through the broken windshield before it submerged.
A photo captured on April 26 shows heavy machinery lifting the vehicle from the marina, provided by local resident Clark Manning.
Remembering Gary Smith
Friends describe Smith as an “awesome human” with a huge heart, always ready with a laugh. He previously owned a dive shop and served as a diving instructor.
Police spokesperson confirmed the investigation concluded with the ruling of a tragic accident.
