A man died at Annette Lake, Jasper, yesterday (August 3).
Jasper RCMP responded to a call of a possible drowning at the lake at 5 p.m. yesterday.
When they arrived, EMS and Parks Canada staff were on scene trying to provide life-saving support measures.
But despite attempts at resuscitation, the 39-year-old man was declared dead at the scene.
A police media release said several people including family and tourists made efforts to reach the man and help his recovery, and gave thanks to the many people who offered help.
Jasperite Alfred Kong was one of those who immediately jumped in the water to help when he saw the man in distress.
"I was the first guy to jump in the water and try to save the guy," he said.
"I didn't realize how deep the water is. I had to do it."
Kong said by the time he reached where the man had been, he was underwater.
"It's usually very shallow, knee high," he said.
"When I got there it was over my head. I couldn't find him when I got there. I was screaming for help - 'Help me find him!'"
Kong said the man's family came over on their inflatable boat, but they couldn't see him either.
But by that time others had come to assist. Kong said people on a paddleboard found the man and carried him to shore where EMS tried to save him.
Police said there is no indication of any criminality in this incident but the investigation is ongoing with the assistance of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Edmonton.
The RCMP will not be providing further information.
