An avalanche hazard warning sign is seen outside of McBride, B.C., on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

By The Canadian Press

Three heli-skiers killed in northwest B.C. avalanche were Swiss nationals: consulate

Mar 25, 2026 | 9:13 AM

A Swiss government official has confirmed the three people who died in an avalanche in northwestern British Columbia on Sunday were Swiss nationals.

Silvana Renggli with the Consulate General of Switzerland in Vancouver says in an email that the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs is providing assistance to the families of those killed in the slide north of Terrace, B.C.

It says no further details could be provided for privacy reasons.

The slide happened on Mount Knauss, burying the three skiers along with their guide, who sustained injuries requiring surgery in Vancouver.

Michael Brackenhofer with White Wilderness Heliskiing has said the skiers were located and extricated from the snow within 15 minutes.

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The heli-skiing company has suspended operations until further notice.

The company “sends its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the three guests who lost their lives in this incident,” Brackenhofer said Tuesday.

An investigation was being co-ordinated by the BC Coroners Service and RCMP, he said, while WorkSafeBC has also launched a probe.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 25, 2026.

The Canadian Press