A tragic incident unfolded in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) on Saturday, as authorities discovered the body of a canoeist near Iron Lake, located close to the Canadian border. The victim, identified as 62-year-old Robert Sydney James from St. Louis Park, Minnesota, was found after a capsized canoe was spotted by U.S. Forest Service employees at approximately 2:17 p.m.
According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, James was believed to be on a solo canoe trip at the time of the incident. His body was found in close proximity to the overturned canoe, along with his gear, floating in the water. He was reportedly wearing a life jacket when found.
A Forest Service aircraft was promptly deployed to recover the body. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, with officials noting that further details may emerge as the inquiry continues.
This story is based on the most recent information provided by law enforcement and is subject to updates as more details become available.