Port-Cartier authorities are investigating after a fisherman in his 60s was found dead in the St. Lawrence River following a search Monday.
The man had gone fishing near the river, and relatives contacted the Sûreté du Québec at about 8:30 a.m. on October 12, 2026, after they became concerned that they had not heard from him.
Police located the man’s vehicle near the shoreline during the search, along with footprints leading toward the water.
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Port-cartier: Canadian Armed Forces helicopter located the man
The search continued through the day, with a Canadian Armed Forces helicopter called in to assist.
The helicopter located the man in the river at about 4 p.m., according to information provided by the Sûreté du Québec.
The man was taken to hospital, where his death was confirmed.
Authorities have not publicly identified him.
Cause of death remains under investigation
Investigators are working to determine whether the man accidentally entered the water or suffered a medical emergency while fishing.
Police said there did not appear to be an involved boat.
The man may have been fishing from the shore or from the shallow water near the riverbank.
The Sûreté du Québec said the investigation is continuing and that an autopsy will help establish the precise circumstances of the death.
Police have also indicated that nothing appears criminal at this stage.
What happens next
The investigation will focus on reconstructing the man’s final movements and determining how he entered the water.
Investigators may also examine the shoreline, the recovered vehicle and other evidence gathered during the search.
The case remains open pending the autopsy and the completion of police inquiries.
Further details, including the victim’s identity, could be released once authorities have completed notification procedures and confirmed the relevant facts.
The incident serves as a reminder that conditions along the St. Lawrence can change quickly, particularly for people fishing close to shore or near moving water.
Personal flotation equipment, a charged phone and notifying someone about a planned outing can help reduce risks during remote or shoreline activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened near Port-Cartier?
A fisherman in his 60s was found dead in the St. Lawrence River near Port-Cartier on October 12, 2026, after relatives reported him missing.
When was the fisherman reported missing?
The Sûreté du Québec received the report at about 8:30 a.m. on October 12, 2026.
Who helped locate the fisherman?
A Canadian Armed Forces helicopter assisted the Sûreté du Québec and located the man in the river at about 4 p.m.
Has the man’s identity been released?
No. Authorities have not publicly released his identity.
Is the death being treated as criminal?
Police said nothing appeared criminal at this stage, but the investigation and autopsy remain ongoing.
Fact-Checked: Key details were checked against current Sûreté du Québec information and corroborating regional reports published on October 13, 2026.
Disclaimer: The cause and circumstances of death remain unconfirmed pending the police investigation and autopsy.