Man dies after 'on-mountain accident' at B.C. ski resort

(Credit: Sun Peaks Resort)

A fatal incident at a B.C. ski resort is under investigation.

In a statement to CTV News Vancouver, Sun Peaks Resort said its ski patrol was informed of "an on-mountain accident" Thursday. When the team arrived to the area, an injured man was found. He later died of his injuries, the resort's statement said.

While the resort initially said it wouldn't release further information about the incident "out of privacy and respect," an updated statement released late Friday afternoon indicated the man "died of his injuries after a collision with a tree on a beginner trail on Mt. Morrisey."

"While enjoying the mountain environment is not without risk, events of this nature are rare, and we strive to provide a safe environment for everyone," the new statement said. "At this time, our focus is supporting those in need, including our employees who attended to the injured guest and have been involved with this situation."

Sun Peaks Resort said it's co-operating with an RCMP investigation into the incident.

Multiple other fatal incidents have been reported at ski resorts in the province this year. Three people have died at Whistler Blackcomb in 2024, with the most recent fatality happening earlier this month. 

On March 9, a 32-year-old woman died during a "serious incident" at the resort. Officials said the woman – a Vancouver resident – became separated from an associate, and was later found unresponsive by Whistler Blackcomb ski patrol.

The woman was located on Renegade, which the resort described as an "advanced gladed trail" near the Catskinner Express Chairlift.

CTV News Vancouver has reached out to Kamloops RCMP for more information about the incident at Sun Peaks.

"Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time, and our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of this individual," the statement from Sun Peaks Resort said.

With files from CTV News Vancouver's Andrew Weichel