Alcohol believed to be factor in Saskatoon river drowning

SASKATOON – Water rescue crews pulled a deceased 20-year-old Saskatoon man out of the South Saskatchewan River on Sunday morning.

Around 4 a.m., Saskatoon police received a call indicating someone had fallen into the river from the University Bridge.

Investigators determined that a group of young men had been crawling through the arches underneath the bridge when one of them fell.

Another member of the group went in to the water in a life-saving attempt, but was unsuccessful.

Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services conducted a water rescue operation with the assistance of an air support unit.

Shortly after 9:30 a.m., the body was recovered approximately 120 yards downstream.

Police do not suspect foul play but alcohol is considered to be a contributing factor.