The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) is currently conducting an investigation following an incident where an individual operating a Sea-Doo collided with a grey whale near Vancouver. Observers along Vancouver’s waterfront witnessed the collision near Siwash Rock in Stanley Park at approximately 7:30 p.m. PT on Monday.
Richard Savage, who had previously observed the grey whale near Second Beach, recounted the events leading up to the collision. He mentioned that while they were observing the whale, a speeding Sea-Doo passed by Siwash Rock and later approached them at a high speed near Lions Gate Bridge, resulting in the collision with the whale.
Savage described witnessing the person being thrown from the Sea-Doo and immediately calling for help. The incident left him feeling deeply saddened for the whale, emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence with marine creatures.
Kevin Connolly, who was filming the whale at the time, captured the collision on video. The Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue reported that a nearby sailboat assisted the injured individual from the watercraft, providing initial medical aid before further medical attention was given upon reaching the dock.
Emergency services were alerted about the incident at 7:54 p.m., and the injured person was transported to the hospital in a serious but stable condition. The DFO confirmed its ongoing investigation into the matter, as they have the jurisdiction to enforce marine regulations and safeguard marine species.
Vancouver police, in collaboration with the DFO, are actively investigating the incident, with the possibility of charges pending. Meanwhile, eyewitnesses like Catherine Jardine reported observing the whale post-incident, displaying normal behavior without any apparent injuries.
Jackie Hildering from the Marine Education and Research Society emphasized that the collision seemed entirely avoidable and urged boaters to maintain a safe distance from marine wildlife. With regulations requiring a minimum 100-meter distance from grey whales, Hildering stressed the importance of responsible and cautious boating practices to prevent such incidents in the future.