Christmas Day fall in Banff kills ‘passionate’ ice climber
BANFF The victim of a fatal fall on Cascade Mountain here on Christmas Day is being remembered by his family and co-workers for his zest for life, charm and quirky sense of humour.
Ice climber Carl Hawkins, 26, died Christmas Day while soloing on a popular ice climbing route on the mountain.
Banff RCMP said they responded to a 911 call around 11 a.m. that day about a sudden death on a popular route on the Cascade Falls.
“He was pronounced deceased on scene, and the initial investigation revealed he had succumbed to his injuries which were the result of falling a significant distance down the ice climb,” RCMP said.
Hawkins worked at Valhalla Pure Outfitters on Main Street in Canmore, and lived in his van behind Save- On-Foods.
“It is with great sadness that we share that on December 25th, 2018, Carl Hawkins, beloved son, brother, partner, grandson, nephew, cousin
and friend to so many, was fatally injured in a climbing accident in Banff, Alberta,” said a statement from the Hawkins family.
Banff RCMP said last week the matter remained under investigation and they were looking into possible causes, as that may prevent a similar tragedy among the climbing community.
Police also said they were looking into the type and condition of the equipment used.
A friend of the Hawkins family has started a GoFundMe to help Carl’s parents with their costs and to give them an opportunity to memorialize him, according to the Valhalla Pure Outfitters Canmore Facebook page.
The page describes Carl Hawkins as “a passionate climber, van dweller and a great friend.”
“His zest for life, quirky sense of humour and all around charm were something truly special. He will be greatly missed.”