Calgary teen dies after avalanche near Nakiska ski area

A 15-year-old skier from Calgary has died after being buried in an avalanche near the Nakiska ski area west of Calgary, according to the Cochrane RCMP.

Police said officers were called just before 1 p.m. Friday to reports that two people were missing following an avalanche near the Nakiska Ski Area in Kananaskis Country. The ski area is located about 45 kilometres west of Calgary.

Mounties said one of the skiers was able to free themselves from the snow. The second teen, a 15-year-old from Calgary, remained missing until he was located unconscious. He was transported to hospital, where he died Saturday morning.

RCMP said multiple resources were deployed in the search, though police did not specify which agencies assisted. The circumstances leading up to the avalanche have not been detailed, and police have not said whether the teens were skiing in-bounds or in a backcountry area.

Officers extended condolences to the teen’s family and friends. The investigation remains ongoing.

Context: Avalanches are a recurring winter hazard in Kananaskis Country and can occur both in controlled ski areas and in surrounding backcountry terrain. Police have not released further details about what triggered the slide or whether additional safety advisories will follow.