Man dies in Whistler snowboarding accident
By Trail Champion
A 24-year-old Australian man died in an accident at Whistler yesterday, according to RCMP Staff Sgt. Steve LeClair.
‘On Jan 17 … at 11:50 a.m., Whistler Ski Patrol contacted Whistler RCMP to advise of a serious injury on Whistler Mountain,” he said. “A 24-year-old snowboarder visiting from Australia was riding when he fell in a steep treed area and suffered head trauma.
“Ski Patrol attended to the scene and located the injured male. It appears that he and a woman found themselves in steeper terrain than they were able to handle and removed their snowboards in an attempt to walk down the steep slope. The male slipped, slid down the slope and impacted with some trees. An on-mountain doctor attended the scene to provide advanced life support.
‘The male was taken by helicopter from the mountain and flown to the Whistler Health Care Center. He was subsequently transferred to a hospital in Vancouver and, shortly after 7 p.m., succumbed to his injuries.
“This tragic incident is a reminder that hazards exist within and outside the ski area boundary. Skiers and riders are urged to exercise caution when on the mountain to have a safe, enjoyable experience.”
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