An avalanche near Tumbler Ridge has claimed the life of a snowmobiler from Alberta.
The location of the avalanche at Albright Ridge is known to be an alpine area used by a small number of experienced snowmobilers, RCMP Insp. Tim Shields, E Division Strategic Communications, said in a news release.
On the afternoon of Jan. 23, Tumbler Ridge RCMP received notice of an activation northwest of Albright Ridge and a search of the area by police and Provincial Emergency Program was initiated.
During the search that evening police learned from two men who had made it out of the avalanche that a total of five people had been caught in a slide.
Three, including one in serious medical distress, remained at the site while the two who were interviewed went for help.
The injured man had been dug out by the survivors using avalanche beacons, probes and shovels from about two meters of snow and required CPR, but the 47-year-old from Grand Cache succumbed to his injuries. The remaining two were in good condition.
Search and Rescue efforts, challenged by darkness, snow conditions and difficult terrain, were halted Sunday night and the rescue and recovery took place about 10.30 a.m. Monday.
RCMP advise outdoor enthusiasts traversing the back country to educate themselves on terrain conditions and essential equipment.
