An avalanche in an alpine area on the east side of Kootenay Lake swept away a group of skiers Monday, trapping four men, killing three of them.

Just prior to 1 p.m. on March 24, two groups of skiers with Stellar Heli Skiing had just finished skiing the bowl and were waiting in a staging area below the tree line of Clute Creek water shed, located about 18 km northeast of Kaslo. A transport helicopter was nearing the group when the pilot observed an avalanche and sounded the siren.

One group of skiers was able to run out of harm’s way, while the other group of four was swept away into the tree line, Kaslo RCMP reported.

Kaslo Search and Rescue was dispatched shortly after the incident was reported and responded with a team of four specialized winter response technicians.

Efforts to recover the men were initiated. Sadly, three were located deceased; a 44-year-old man from Whistler, a 45-year-old man from Idaho, USA and the 53-year-old guide from Kaslo. The fourth man, 40-years-old from Nelson, was critically injured.

“The entire team at Stellar Heli Skiing extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts remain with them during this incredibly difficult time,” Stellar Heli Skiing said in a statement posted on its website.

Kaslo RCMP will continue to assist the BC Coroners Service in the investigation.

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