Ongoing Incident Near Discovery Harbour

Update – Discovery Harbour Incident Response

The Town of Penetanguishene continues to support the coordinated response to the marine incident in the Discovery Harbour area.

This remains a multi-agency effort led in partnership with the Canadian Coast Guard, alongside the Penetanguishene Fire Department, the OPP, the County of Simcoe, and other first responders. Each agency is operating within its area of expertise to ensure a safe, effective, and environmentally responsible resolution.

We recognize that some members of the public have raised questions about the response. Situations involving vessels in the water fall under federal jurisdiction, and the Canadian Coast Guard is playing a lead role in managing marine safety, environmental protection, and vessel removal. The Town’s role is to support this coordinated response and help ensure community safety.

At this time:

• The vessel has been secured, and the Canadian Coast Guard is installing lighting to ensure it remains clearly visible overnight, reducing navigation risks and maintaining public safety.
• Removal operations are scheduled to continue tomorrow, with a focus on safely extracting the vessel while preventing environmental impact in this sensitive waterfront area.
• Measures remain in place to protect the shoreline and surrounding ecosystem, including mitigation of any potential contamination.

We also want to reaffirm that the health, safety, and wellbeing of the individual involved remains a top priority. Appropriate supports continue to be provided, and first responders are ensuring they receive the care and assistance required.

For the safety of the public and emergency crews, residents and visitors are asked to continue avoiding the Discovery Harbour area until further notice.

We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as crews complete this complex operation safely and responsibly. Further updates will be shared as new information becomes available.

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