Snowmobilers who died in Jack Lake Christmas night identified

NORTH KAWARTHA TOWNSHIP — A Toronto couple who died while out riding Christmas night in Jack Lake have been identified.

Provincial police says Gerald White, 76, and Patricia White, 69.

The OPP were called to assist with a report of snowmobilers that had been located in the waters of Jack Lake south of the village of Apsley Thursday morning at approximately 10 a.m.

The male and female snowmobilers did not return from their ride last night and were last seen at 11 p.m.

The snowmobilers were located this morning approximately thirty feet from shore and were pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident remains under investigation and the identity of the victims will not be released until next of kin are notified.

Reports say they were out at a cottage for dinner beforehand.

The Peterborough County OPP is advising snowmobilers to avoid driving on lakes and rivers. If it can’t be avoided, check ice conditions beforehand, wear a floater suit and carry ice picks and make sure they are accessible. No ice is safe ice.