Whistler RCMP respond to avalanche fatality on Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort

Whistler

2022-04-07 16:14 PDT

File # 2022-1686

On Tuesday, April 5th, 2022 at 3:55 pm Whistler RCMP received an emergency call from several skiers on Whistler Blackcomb requesting assistance.  The group had located a skier in the West Bowl area of the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort that needed medical assistance. 

Whistler Ski Patrol and Whistler RCMP attended to the area to provide emergency care but unfortunately the 34 year old man from Whistler was pronounced deceased on scene.  It was determined there had been a size 1 avalanche in which the man was believed to have been swept into.  A complete search of the area was conducted and no other individuals were located.

Whistler RCMP will work alongside the BC Coroners Service and the Whistler Blackcomb Health & Safety Team on this investigation.  Whistler RCMP were also alerted to an additional size 2 avalanche yesterday, April 6th, in the West Col area off Blackcomb Mountain where several skiers were caught in the flow but no one was injured.

"The snowpack in and around Whistler is unstable at the moment due to the warming weather and snowfall this past week" stated Staff Sergeant Sascha Banks.  "We are recommending everyone to check your area prior touring in the backcountry or Whistler Blackcomb, know your skill level, trip plan, have the appropriate equipment, and have friends with you. Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and the responding team from the man found on Tuesday."

For backcountry safety and trip planning please visit Avalanche Canada www.avalanche.ca and BC Adventure Smart www.adventuresmart.ca

 

Released by

S/Sgt. Sascha Banks

Senior Operations NCO
Sea to Sky RCMP (Whistler)
4315 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC
Office: 604-932-3044
Cell: 604-389-8391

Email: sascha.banks@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Follow Us:

Date modified: