Nanaimo Man Dies After Cornice Collapse Near Whistler’s Mt. Callaghan
A Nanaimo man has died after he and his snowmobile fell from a collapsed cornice near Whistler’s Mount Callaghan. This tragic event highlights both the unpredictable nature of backcountry terrain and the importance of being prepared for emergencies, including knowing how to perform CPR.
(Original news source:
Nanaimo man dead after snowmobile falls from collapsed cornice near Whistler
Incident Near Callaghan Lake Provincial Park
Around 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, Whistler RCMP responded to reports of a snowmobile accident at Mount Callaghan, near Callaghan Lake Provincial Park. Witnesses reported that the rider had stopped on what appeared to be a stable, hardened cornice. Moments later, the overhanging snow mass suddenly collapsed, sending both the man and his snowmobile approximately 75 metres down the slope, where he became partially buried.
Rapid Search and Rescue Effort
Whistler Search and Rescue, accompanied by a physician, deployed by helicopter to the area. Other nearby snowmobilers quickly stepped in, helping to dig the man out and performing CPR in an attempt to revive him.
Despite their quick actions, Staff Sgt. Paul Hayes reported that the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. While the cause of death has not yet been confirmed, investigators noted that the circumstances do not appear suspicious. Whistler RCMP continue to work with the BC Coroners Service.
Backcountry Safety Reminder
Following the incident, Whistler RCMP and local SAR teams reminded backcountry users to exercise extreme caution around cornices.
Avalanche Canada had rated the alpine hazard as “moderate” at the time but specifically advised travellers to give cornices an extra wide berth, as they can fail without warning.
Cornices may look solid, but they are often fragile and unpredictable—especially during periods of warming temperatures, shifting winds, or recent snowfall.
Why CPR Training Matters
This incident underscores just how crucial bystander CPR can be. The snowmobilers who immediately performed CPR demonstrated the importance of knowing how to act confidently during an emergency.
While not every outcome can be changed, high-quality, early CPR dramatically increases survival rates in many emergency situations.
If you want to gain the skills to respond effectively in emergencies, consider taking a CPR course. Calgary First Aid offers comprehensive, hands-on CPR and AED training that can prepare you to help when it matters most:
👉 Learn more about CPR training at Calgary First Aid:
https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
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