'Act of heroism': Family says 2 men who fell through ice died trying to save children

A Saskatchewan family is grieving the loss of three members, including a seven-year-old girl. Kristen Bilawchuk expressed her deep sorrow, stating, "I am truly shattered, but I feel an incredible amount of support from our family, friends, and community."

Bilawchuk's husband, Chris Novakowski, lost his niece on Saturday at Humboldt Lake, approximately 115 kilometers east of Saskatoon. Bilawchuk explained that the tragedy unfolded when the seven-year-old girl, Ava, and their five-year-old daughter ventured onto the ice alone. She mentioned, "They always knew not to go to the lake without an older companion." The older brother witnessed the incident and rushed to inform their mother, Heather Novakowski. Heather, speaking to reporters, said she saw the girls drifting away from the shore while swimming and quickly entered the water to rescue them.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) communication team responded around 2:20 p.m. CST on Saturday. Initially, they could only rescue three out of the five individuals who had fallen into the lake. Unfortunately, Ava lost her life at the scene, while Heather and another daughter were transported to the Humboldt hospital.

The police recovery team later located the bodies of 38-year-old Chris and 28-year-old Joe. Heather mentioned that she and her daughter are being treated and are in better physical condition.

The family is preparing for the funerals of Chris and Joe in Saskatoon on Sunday and for Ava on Thursday in Humboldt. For Ava's procession, the family has requested people to wear bright colors and bring bird-shaped balloons for children. Bilawchuk expressed their belief that their faith and the support of one another will help them through this difficult time.

The mayor of Humboldt described the death of the seven-year-old girl and two older individuals due to the ice fall as "very tragic" and extended his sympathy to the family.

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