Man, 70, dies in workplace accident at South Okanagan ski resort: Police

A ski resort in B.C.’s Southern Interior has temporarily closed its doors following a fatal workplace accident on Friday.

Baldy Mountain Resort, located near Oliver, said on its Facebook page that “it is with great pain we report the passing of a wonderful, caring, gentle and valued Baldy family member, from a terrible accident yesterday.

“We are all devastated. The intense emotions we feel are beyond comprehension. We cannot begin to grasp the overwhelming pain and sorrow the family is going through right now. We know there are no words to comfort them.”

The resort did not say who the person was or how they died, though police said it was a workplace incident, with a resort employee sustaining serious injuries after becoming stuck beneath a Snowcat groomer.

“Despite the efforts of other employees and emergency first aid attendants on the mountain, the 70-year-old man did not survive and was pronounced deceased,” RCMP Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey said in a press release.

Police say the B.C. Coroners Service and WorkSafeBC have been notified, with each launching independent investigations into the man’s death.

RCMP added that the man’s identity will not be released.

In an email to Global News, WorkSafeBC said it has been notified of the incident, and that an officer had been assigned to investigate.

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Earlier in the day, the resort said “everyone at Baldy is working diligently with the authorities on this situation, following their directions and complying with their requests.

“We will be closed today as they pursue their investigation. Further scheduling updates will be provided on our website and social media.

“At this time, we ask for your patience and understanding while we deal with this tragic situation. We kindly ask you to respect the grief the family is going through. Please keep your posts kind and respectful.

“Thank you all for your understanding.”

To see the latest details, visit Mount Baldy’s website.