OPP investigating death at Wasaga Beach

BARRIE, ONT. -

OPP are investigating in Wasaga Beach following what officers are calling a suspicious death.

According to police, emergency crews responded to calls coming from Beach Area 1 at Wasaga Beach shortly after 12:30 a.m. Sunday. Police say an adult male was suffering life-threatening injuries.

Business owners in the area were gearing up to begin another busy day, which came to an abrupt stop after Beach Area 1 was closed for several hours.

Restaurant owner Patrick Doering says the restaurant he works at had a waitlist of people eager to eat at the establishment.

"We don't need this happening. We want to get businesses coming and have people come and feel safe," says Doering.

OPP say that two adult males were arrested. Officers say there is no threat to public safety.

Business owners in the area say the news comes as a shock.

"It's very rare around the beach," says Jack Prezio, owner of Pedro's Gift Shop. "It doesn't happen that often- it's happened before, but it doesn't happen like people think it would happen."

It comes after a drowning at Wasaga Beach on Saturday evening. A 22-year-old male was pronounced deceased in hospital.

Locals say the beach is usually a safe place to enjoy the day.

"We've always had a lot of OPP come in for the summer from several other districts, and they make quite a visual presence," says Dave Breadner. "They manage—in my opinion—to keep things pretty quiet most of the time."

Wasaga Beach Mayor Nina Bifolchi released a statement expressing her condolences to the families of both victims.

Beach Area 1 is now reopening to the public after being closed throughout the morning.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Huronia West OPP Department at 1-888-310-1122. You can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or by clicking here.