Two B.C. avalanches kill four people in one day
By Kyra Hoggan
On the afternoon of March 22, BC EHS and RCMP responded to a report of an avalanche which resulted in several fatalities. The incident had been reported by staff at a local heliskiing lodge, and the avalanche location was identified as Iridium Shoulder (near Terrace), according to BC RCMP Sgt. Vanessa Munn.
“One man was transported to local hospital by BC EHS with serious injuries and is now in stable condition. Three men were located deceased,” Munn said. “Identities of those involved are not being released.”
On the same day, Munn said, Atlin RCMP received a Garmin SOS alert from a remote area near Klehini River, Pleasant Camp, in close proximity to the BC/USA border, approximately 500 km from Atlin. Information indicated that an avalanche had occurred and that one individual was unconscious and CPR was underway.
“Atlin RCMP coordinated with Atlin Search and Rescue (SAR) to plan an extraction,” Munn said. “Due to the remote location, a helicopter was utilized to access the area. Upon arrival, responders confirmed that one person was deceased. Five individuals were extracted in total, with four uninjured.”
She said the BC Coroners Service has been notified and is engaged in the investigation.
