News release

Elk Valley RCMP investigate sudden death at Fernie Alpine Resort

January 10, 2025 - Elk Valley, British Columbia
From: Elk Valley Regional RCMP

Content

File # 2025-68

On January 8 2025, Elk Valley Regional RCMP were notified of a possible sudden death at the Fernie Alpine Resort. Upon attendance, BC Ambulance was already transporting the 67 year old man to hospital. The man had been found within a natural terrain trap buried in snow near the top of the ski hill by Fernie Alpine Patrol. Tremendous efforts by the ski patrol and BC Ambulance to keep the man alive, including use of an AED device, were made and he was taken to our local hospital by BC Ambulance. Unfortunately, after several hours attempting to improve his health status, the man was taken off life support and declared deceased. Family had been advised by hospital staff and were in attendance.

It is believed poor visibility at that time lead the man into a naturally occurring terrain trap underneath one of the first lift towers of the Polar Peak lift. The trap described further as a deep naturally occurring oval sink hole approximately 20 feet by 30 feet wide and filled with loose and undisturbed snow, that led to the accident. Elk Valley RCMP continues to assist the BC Coroner Service with their investigation.

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