A 15-year-old was killed after being caught in an avalanche in the Naskiska area, about 100 kilometres west of Calgary.
RCMP confirm they received a call around 12:49 p.m. on Friday that two skiers were trapped in the avalanche that occurred in-bounds at the ski area.
Personnel from several agencies responded to the area as part of the search and rescue effort.
An RCMP spokesperson confirms one of the trapped skiers was able to get out on their own, but the second skier was “unresponsive” when found.
A spokesperson for EMS confirms the skier who was able to get out was uninjured.
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However, EMS said the second person, identified as a youth, was transported by ground ambulance to Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary in life-threatening (critical) condition.
In an update, RCMP said the 15-year-old Calgary resident died early Saturday morning.
The Alberta Alpine Ski Association confirmed two of their athletes were involved in the incident.
In a statement, the association said “We are heartbroken and profoundly saddened by this tragic loss of life, and we extend our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family as they navigate this unimaginable grief.”
Our entire community is shaken by this event, and our thoughts and prayers are with the athletes, their families, teammates, and coaches during this incredibly difficult time. We recognize that this situation has had a profound impact on many, and we are committed to ensuring appropriate support is available to those affected.
A spokesperson for the Nakiska Ski Area, provided a statement to Global News that said “Our hearts are with the family and friends of this individual. We are sending out deepest care to the family dealing with this horrible situation.”
The spokesperson added that a full investigation is underway and more details will be provided when they become available.
Avalanche Canada has issued a warning that strong winds and new snow that fell in the area overnight Thursday and into Friday mean the avalanche danger in the area is high.
This is the fifth avalanche-related fatality in western Canada this season, with four of them happening within the last 11 days.
He was not in bounds either, he was on nakiska property but not on the actual run itself.
Condolences to the teens Family and Friends.
May he Rest In Heavenly Peace.
THE YOUNG SKIER WAS NOT KILLED !!
HE, IN FACT DIED AS A RESULT OF BEING CAUGHT IN A NATURAL OCCURING AVALANCHE. HE DIED.
CAPS WERE USED TO REINFORCE THE CORRECT USAGE OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE
You need to update your file photos. The picture of a ski run with one tree is the Lone Pine run at Mount Norquay Ski Area in Banff
Both involved were kids. Please correct your article