Police confirm three skiers killed in avalanche while heli-skiing
Four others were injured in slide but are expected to recover
INVERMERE, B.C. The president of a heli-skiing operation says he and his staff are heartbroken after an avalanche killed three people and injured four others in southeastern British Columbia.
Tom Brinkerhoff, president of RK Heliski, told the media on Thursday it was the “saddest day ever,” saying guests and guides who ski with them each season are part of their family.
Brinkerhoff said they “are heartbroken about the incident” Wednesday that swept away 10 skiers in B.C.’s backcountry.
“It is impossible to put into words the sorrow that we feel and the sadness that is shared by our guests, their families and all of our staff,” said Brinkerhoff, adding that their prayers and thoughts go out to everyone involved and their loved ones.
RCMP said the group was swept away by the avalanche not far from the Panorama Mountain Resort, about 150 kilometres southwest of Banff, Alta.
Cpl. James Grandy said everyone in the group has been accounted for, with four injured who were expected to recover. He said all the skiers except the guide were from outside Canada.
Forecasters have warned the conditions on B.C.’s backcountry this season are extremely dangerous. The latest deaths bring the number of those killed in British Columbia avalanches this season to 12.
Avalanche Canada said the slide was a size three avalanche, large enough to “bury and destroy a car, damage a truck, destroy a building and break trees.”
The avalanche happened in the riding of Columbia River-Revelstoke, represented by member of the legislature Doug Clovechok.
“When these tragedies occur, it shakes the entire community,” he said as his voice cracked with emotion.
He said their hearts go out to the victims and their loved ones, and those who survived the frightening event.
“Even the most experienced backcountry skier can encounter trouble. It’s vital that people check the warnings, carry the right gear and be mindful of the dangers that come out there.”
When these tragedies occur, it shakes the entire community.
DOUG CLOVECHOK MEMBER OF B.C. LEGISLATURE