Body of canoeist found on Lake Laberge identified as a seasonal Whitehorse resident

The body of the canoeist recovered from Lake Labergein Yukon on Saturday has been identified as a Whitehorse seasonal resident.

A 54 year-old man, Allan Kirwan,had rented a canoe from a local company on June 24, according to a news release from theYukon Coroner's Service.

Kirwan was traveling alone to Carmacks, Yukon,and was supposed to arrive there on Wednesday.

Shortly after 4 p.m.on Saturday, however, Kirwan's overturned canoe was foundby an off-duty Mountie who wasboating on Lake Laberge.

At 6:25 p.m., Whitehorse RCMPbegan a search, with the help of the Yukon Search and Rescuevolunteers.Using a police plane, Mounties foundthe body about five kilometers from the capsized canoe.

The release says Yukon Coroner's Service went tothe scene with the help of police.

At the time of Kirwan's departure and the following day,water travel conditions on Lake Labergewere difficult to navigate, therelease says, with high waters and high windsthat "would have created extremely hazardous conditions."

The public is being reminded of the current high water conditions and dangersposed to all water travelers at this time.

"We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Kirwan," it says in the release.

Whitehorse RCMP along with the Yukon Coroner's office are still investigating.