Two Sudden Deaths on B.C. Ski Hills Under Investigation: A Reminder of the Importance of First Aid Skills
Two men in their 30s tragically died on Friday after being found in medical distress in snowy, wooded areas at two separate British Columbia ski resorts. The RCMP and BC Coroners Service are investigating both incidents, which at this time do not appear to be related.
This story was originally reported by CTV News. You can read the full article here:
Separate sudden deaths of snowboarder, skier under investigation: RCMP
These events highlight not only the risks associated with winter sports, but also the critical importance of immediate first aid, CPR, and AED skills during emergencies.
Snowboarder Found Unresponsive Near Nelson, B.C.
The first incident occurred on January 17, just before 12:30 p.m. near a ski resort outside Nelson, B.C. A snowboarder was discovered unresponsive in a tree well, a dangerous pocket of loose snow that can trap or suffocate someone who falls into it.
A passerby quickly took action—calling for help and immediately beginning CPR. Ski patrol responded swiftly and transported the patient to another area within the resort, where emergency medical responders continued resuscitation efforts.
According to RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Jesse O’Donaghey, “Despite all their efforts, the man was pronounced deceased by emergency paramedics.”
The man, a resident of the Central Kootenays, was in his 30s.
Skier Dies After Being Found in Trees on Fernie Ski Hill
Approximately four hours later, another man in his 30s was found unresponsive at Fernie Ski Hill, more than 300 kilometres away from the first incident.
Originally from Quebec, the man had been skiing with a companion but became separated. He was later discovered among the trees by others on the hill.
Ski patrollers transported him off the mountain, and he was taken to a local hospital by BC Emergency Health Services. Despite extensive efforts by first responders and medical staff, he was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Both deaths remain under investigation, and the identities of the men have not been released.
Why These Stories Matter: The Life-Saving Power of First Aid Training
While the outcomes of these cases were tragic, they underline an important truth: emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere—often without warning.
Immediate action can significantly improve survival rates, especially during cardiac or respiratory emergencies.
CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) are simple, effective, life-saving interventions that anyone can learn.
Why CPR and AED Training Is Essential
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CPR keeps oxygen circulating when the heart stops.
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AEDs can restore a heartbeat through a safe, controlled electrical shock.
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Bystanders save lives—but only when they know what to do.
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Remote environments like ski hills, hiking trails, and rural areas often involve longer EMS response times.
If these first responders hadn’t acted quickly in both cases, medical teams would not have had any chance to intervene.
Learn How to Help: Take a CPR or First Aid Course
If you want to be prepared to help in an emergency, consider enrolling in a certified CPR and AED training program. These courses build confidence, hands-on skills, and the ability to act decisively when it matters most.
👉 Learn more about CPR and AED training here:
https://firstaidcalgary.ca/cpr-courses/
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