RCMP investigating death of 52-year-old Nanaimo man

Whistler RCMP is investigating after a 52-year-old Nanaimo man died while snowmobiling near Callaghan Lake Provincial Park on Saturday, Feb. 10.

The call came in at about 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, and Whistler Search and Rescue (WSAR) were dispatched to the scene with a doctor via helicopter, the RCMP said in a release.

"Upon attendance, it was determined that the snowmobiler had stopped on a cornice which subsequently collapsed," the release said.

"The male, 52 years old from Nanaimo, fell approximately 250 feet onto the slope and was partially buried. Other snowmobilers in the area came to the male's assistance, dug him out and began CPR. Despite the best efforts of everyone the male was pronounced deceased at scene."

A cause of death has not been determined, but the death does not appear to be suspicious, the release said.

RCMP officers are working with the BC Coroners Service on the investigation.

Whistler RCMP and WSAR want to remind people who are recreating in the backcountry to use caution — particularly around cornices. Avalanche Canada had advertised that the hazard in the alpine was deemed to be "moderate" at the time, but had recommended people give cornices an extra wide berth.

Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Whistler RCMP at 604-932-3044. If they wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.