Tragic Drowning Claims Life of Calgary Man in Jamaican Waters
A 68-year-old Canadian man from Calgary has tragically drowned after the boat he was in capsized in rough waters off the coast of Negril, Jamaica. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning, resulting in the death of Jean D'Amour, who had been employed for more than two decades at the Alberta New Home and Warranty Program.
Details of the Fatal Incident
According to Jamaican police reports, the boat carrying D'Amour and two other individuals capsized at approximately 9:20 a.m. on Tuesday. The vessel was operating despite dangerous water conditions that had prompted licensed operators to cancel trips and pull boats ashore for safety reasons.
Witnesses reported seeing a strong wave strike the boat, causing it to overturn in the turbulent waters. D'Amour was found unresponsive following the capsizing and was pronounced dead after being transported to a nearby hospital.
Safety Concerns and Investigation
The incident has raised serious questions about water safety protocols in the popular tourist destination. Jamaican regulations for tourist water sports require licensed operators to be skilled swimmers with training in rescue procedures and first aid. Additionally, life jackets must be provided to all passengers on such excursions.
Police confirmed that the other two men in the boat were responsive after being rescued, though authorities have not commented on their current medical status. The boat operator allegedly proceeded with the trip despite the hazardous conditions that had been widely recognized by other professionals in the area.
Community and Workplace Mourning
The Alberta New Home and Warranty Program posted a heartfelt statement on LinkedIn following D'Amour's passing. Company president and CEO Scott Hamilton described D'Amour as "an icon within the industry" who was "generous with his knowledge, deeply respected, and genuinely loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him."
The statement continued, emphasizing that "this has been a profoundly heavy moment for our organization," reflecting the significant impact of D'Amour's loss on his colleagues and the broader Calgary community where he had built his career and life.
Broader Implications for Tourist Safety
This tragic event highlights the importance of adhering to safety regulations in tourist destinations, particularly during adverse weather conditions. The incident serves as a sobering reminder for travelers to verify the credentials of tour operators and to prioritize safety over recreational activities when conditions are dangerous.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the capsizing, questions remain about whether proper safety protocols were followed and what measures can be implemented to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
