FIX CRYSTAL BEACH PIER

News Report -

For decades, thousands of visitors from Buffalo were ferried across Lake Erie to the pier at Crystal Beach amusement park.

While the lakefront property was developed into the Crystal Beach Yacht and Tennis Club after the amusement park closed in 1989, the cement pier has remained untouched.

The cement has broken apart in several sections and the entrance to the pier, accessed by a covered walkway at the yacht club property, is closed off.
Despite being in a state of disrepair, the pier is a popular spot for people who swim out to the pier from nearby Crystal Beach Waterfront Park.
"Kids swim out there all the time, it's a regular sort of thing," said Staff Sgt. David Hunter, of the Niagara Regional Police.

On Sunday, 18-year-old Clayton Wismer was on the pier with several friends when he climbed up a 10-metre-high flag pole at the end of the pier.

"They were out there, having a good time, just like very one else was doing on a sunny, Sunday afternoon," Hunter said.

"The gentleman decided to climb up the flag pole and, unfortunately, he fell onto the pier and then fell into the water."

Several people removed Wismer from the water and placed him on the side of the pier where he succumbed to his injuries.

The Fort Erie Fire Department used a boat to retrieve Wismer's body as the entrance to the pier is fenced off and not accessible.

Police continue to investigate the incident and say, at this point in the investigation, alcohol was not a factor and there is no indication of foul play.

While people often jump off the pier, Hunter said it is unusual to have someone climb the flag pole.

Doug Atkins, a district chief with the Fort Erie Fire Department, said people have been jumping off the pier for years, despite the dangers.

"The pier is in disrepair. It's so deteriorated that there's broken concrete falling into the water." He described the incident as "very tragic" and said he would like to see the structure torn down.

"I'd like to see it completely taken out," he said.
The tragedy came less than 48 hours after Friday's annual unsanctioned "Beach Day" event where high school students from across the region ditch classes in favour of a day at the beach.

Niagara police patrolled both Bay Beach and Crystal Beach on Friday ensuring young people complied with all regulations, rules of the road, provincial laws and local bylaws.

The goal was to have everyone enjoy a peaceful and safe day on the beach. There were no incidents reported.

Hunter reminds residents to take proper precautions when at the beach. "We want them to have a fun and enjoyable day but everybody had to be cautious of what they do and not put themselves or other people at risk," he said.