Two men that ventured out with their ATV onto the thin ice of Lake Magog in the Eastern Townships have died after sinking in the frigid water.

The men were declared dead in hospital after attempts to resuscitate them were unsuccessful.

Memphremagog police said a 911 call came in about 1:45 p.m. saying the ice had given way to the weight of the ATV and its occupants.

The ice was only a few centimetres thick in the spot where it gave way.

Firefighters from North Hatley and Magog helped with the intervention. A man specialized in diving also helped out the two victims, both in their 50s, who were about 60 meters from shore.

Many people witnessed the event, including a 75-year-old man who tried to rescue the duo. He was taken to a hospital for observation.

A coroner is investigating.

With files from La Presse Canadienne.