The Sudbury Police said a 60-year-old man from the Hanmer community died after venturing onto the ice at Lake Onwatin.

Emergency crews, including the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS), Greater Sudbury Fire Services, and EMS (paramedics), responded shortly after 10:45 a.m. on Sunday and retrieved an unconscious person from the lake.

The GSPS said in a New Year's Eve press release: "Immediate life-saving efforts were initiated but the individual succumbed to cold water immersion."

The police also said this tragedy serves as a stark reminder to our community that as winter approaches, we urge everyone to prioritize safety.

The police said: "Recent unseasonable winter weather conditions have created unstable ice on area lakes and waterways; please refrain from venturing onto these frozen surfaces as they pose significant risks."

"Your safety is our highest priority."

This message echoes warnings issued by the Deputy Fire Chief of the Greater Sudbury area, Jessy O'Sheil, last week.

He said: "Ice conditions are concerning; these mild temperatures, although some ice may exist on local waterways, at this time of year any ice should be considered dangerous."

The identity of the Lake Onwatin road resident who died has not been disclosed. The police said: "Out of respect for the family, we will not disclose the name of the individual involved." "Our deepest condolences to the family and friends involved in this tragic incident."