A second person has died following a crash on an Ontario lake involving two boats, one of which reality show star Kevin O’Leary was aboard.
Police said the two-boat crash occurred on Saturday night on Lake Joseph in Seguin Township.
A 64-year-old Florida man, identified as Gary Poltas, and a 48-year-old woman from Uxbridge, identified as Susanne Brito, died in the crash, police said.
Update: Florida man killed in boat crash involving Kevin O'Leary was father of two, brother says
Lake Joseph is located about 200 kilometres north of Toronto. (Google Maps)
Three other occupants from the boats involved were treated and released from hospital, police say.
“On late Saturday night I was a passenger in a boat that was involved in a tragic collision with another watercraft,” O'Leary said in a statement issued on Wednesday.
“My heartfelt prayers and condolences to the victims, the families and those affected by this loss.”
In this Jan. 10, 2013 file photo, Kevin O'Leary attends the Disney ABC Winter TCA Tour in Pasadena, Calif. (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)
“Out of respect for the victims’ families and to fully support the ongoing investigation I feel it is inappropriate to make further comments at this time.”
“I am fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation.”
In a statement, the mayor of Uxbridge said that Brito and her family were active members of the community.
“We are mourning her loss along with her family and friends,” Dave Barton said. “On behalf of the Township of Uxbridge I offer our deepest condolences to her loved ones left behind.”
Susanne Brito, 48, is seen in this undated photograph provided by friends. (CTV News Toronto)
Susanne Brito is seen in this undated photograph posted to social media. (Facebook)
A friend added that Brito was a “kind, genuine and vivacious woman" and a mother to three children.
“I loved her from the moment we met. She didn’t take her friendships lightly and made her love known to everyone she care for,” Heidi Barriage told CTV News Toronto. “She never took life for granted and lived with such a positive energy that many of us will miss dearly. I’m heartbroken and will cherish our friendship forever.”
It’s not yet clear what caused the crash. The police investigation is ongoing.
