A night on the slopes ended in tragedy after a teenager fell from a chairlift at a popular Canadian ski resort and died at the scene.
The fatal incident happened on January 15 at Cypress Mountain, located in the North Shore Mountains just outside Vancouver. The victim, an 18-year-old man from Maple Ridge, B.C., was pronounced dead shortly after emergency crews arrived.
According to the West Vancouver Police Department, first responders were called to the resort around 7:27 p.m. local time following reports of a person in medical distress after falling from a chairlift.
Police confirmed the teen was declared dead at the scene.
BC Emergency Health Services told CBC News that two ambulances and a paramedic response unit were dispatched, but lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful.
Authorities say there is no indication that equipment failure played a role.
“All available evidence points to this being a tragic accident,” WVPD spokesperson Suzanne Birch said in a statement. “There are no obvious indications of technical or mechanical issues with the chairlift.”
Because the death does not appear suspicious, police said the investigation has now been turned over to the coroner’s office.
Victim services were brought to the scene that night and remain available to the teen’s family, witnesses, and members of the public affected by the incident.
“The West Vancouver Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of this young man,” Birch added. “We acknowledge how upsetting this would have been for everyone in the vicinity.”
Following the incident, Cypress Mountain released a statement expressing sympathy for the victim’s loved ones.
“Cypress Mountain extends our heartfelt condolences and support to the guest’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,” the resort said in a statement shared with local outlets.
How do you falll out of a chair lift accidentally ?