BC Ferries passengers disembark near Tsawwassen

A BC Ferries passenger went overboard near Tsawwassen on Wednesday, prompting the cancellation of two sailings on the Duke Point-Tsawwassen route.

The 10:15 a.m. Queen of Alberni sailing departing Tsawwassen and the 12:45 p.m. sailing leaving Duke Point near Nanaimo were both canceled.

The incident occurred as the 7:45 a.m. sail from Duke Point approached Tsawwassen on Wednesday.

According to BC Ferries, the person was brought ashore and received care from Emergency Health Services.

BC Ferries spokeswoman Shiryn Sayani said in such situations, the crew of the vessel activates emergency protocols, including contacting emergency services.

“Incidents like this are rare and our crews are trained to respond quickly and effectively to ensure the safety of all persons on board. When these situations arise, we coordinate with the appropriate authorities, including the police, Coast Guard, Emergency Health Services BC and others emergency services as needed,” she said.

Sayani would not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident or provide further details about the individual.

“We greatly appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding as our crews and emergency services dealt with this situation,” she said.

According to Delta Police spokesperson Insp. James Sandberg, the department responded to what was determined to be a “psychological incident” that was resolved with one person taken to the hospital.

Sandberg said police would not be making any further statements.

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