The Paq’tnkek First Nation in Nova Scotia is in mourning after two members of the community died after their fishing boat capsized just off the community’s coast.
Ozzy Clair, and his cousin Niko were about 60 metres offshore harvesting oysters when the calm waters turned stormy.
Lenore prosper was also on the boat.
She survived.
Her uncle, Paul Prosper says Niko saved her life.
“They were with the boat as far as I understand for a bit, and then realized that they should make it to shore and so they swan together,” he said.
“And it really was… it really helped her to survive.”
Niko Clair’s body was found about three metres from the shore.
His cousin Ozzy’s body was recovered near the boat.
Both were unresponsive and pronounced dead that evening.
The community is getting help.
The Eskasoni First Nation has sent its crisis team to help the community at the health centre.
“Ozzy and Niko Clair will be dearly missed by certainly people within, throughout our community,” said Prosper. “But throughout our surrounding communities, throughout the Mi’kmaq nation and beyond there.”
The community has only been in the oyster fishery for about five years.
According to Prosper all three were wearing a life jacket.
The Transportation Safety Board is investigating.
