Manitoba government adding fencing, signage at falls where young brothers drowned
Posted July 28, 2026 2:33 pm.
Last Updated July 28, 2026 4:30 pm.
The Manitoba government says it will add safety measures like fencing and signage at the provincial park where two brothers drowned this month.
The measures are being added near Sturgeon Falls in Whiteshell Provincial Park after the deaths of Maximo Au Ramirez, 10, and Aaron Au Ramirez, 13.
The brothers were swept away by the fast-moving waters of Nutimik Lake on July 18. Their bodies were recovered in the water last week.
The planned upgrades include erecting fencing to prevent access to slippery rocks in high-risk areas; building fenced-off viewing areas; and updating the current signage to caution about the fast current, steep drop-off, and slippery or hidden rocks.
The old signage was installed in 2023 after 12-year-old Usaid Habib drowned at the site.
READ: Family reliving their son’s drowning death amidst another tragedy in Whiteshell Provincial Park
“These safety measures will help ensure no other family has to suffer a tragic loss,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes.
Sturgeon Falls Trail will remain closed until the safety measures are installed, the province says.
“As a father myself, my heart goes out to the family of the two boys who tragically lost their lives, and also to the families who have lost a loved one to drowning at this site,” said Moyes.
“I have reviewed the safety assessment conducted by department experts and we are taking immediate action to ensure the safety of future park visitors at Sturgeon Falls.”
The province says it will review if additional safety measures are needed at any of Manitoba’s more than 90 parks.
