Three Bodies Recovered After B.C. Mudslide; One Person Still Missing

Four Lives Lost and One Still Missing After Catastrophic Mudslide Near Lillooet, B.C.

In the wake of a deadly mudslide that struck a stretch of Highway 99 near Lillooet, British Columbia, authorities have confirmed the recovery of three men’s bodies, while one person remains unaccounted for.

The disaster, triggered by relentless heavy rains and widespread flooding, has left the community shaken and the landscape scarred.

The British Columbia RCMP and search-and-rescue teams have been tirelessly combing through the treacherous terrain since the mudslide hit on November 15. B.C. Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe announced that the first body was discovered on Wednesday, followed by two additional recoveries on Thursday. Despite continued efforts on Friday, the fourth missing individual has yet to be located.

Earlier in the week, rescue crews had also recovered the body of a woman, marking the initial confirmed fatality linked to this severe weather event that unleashed landslides and flooding across southern B.C.

With conditions growing increasingly hazardous, the coroner’s office has declared active search operations complete after exhausting all feasible options, though discussions continue regarding future steps.

Identification processes are underway for the three men found, as authorities work to notify their families and provide closure. The mudslide severely impacted a segment of Highway 99, known locally as Duffey Lake Road, disrupting transportation and isolating the region.

“Search operations were continually challenged by dangerous terrain and ongoing adverse weather,” noted Staff Sgt. Janelle Shoihet of the B.C. RCMP, highlighting the difficulty responders faced on the ground.

The affected portion of Highway 99 remains closed indefinitely, with no estimated date for reopening.

Chief Coroner Lapointe extended heartfelt sympathies to the families affected. “Our deepest condolences go out to those grieving these sudden losses, as well as to the family of the missing individual, who awaits news in this difficult time,” she said.

“British Columbia has faced an especially tough year with natural disasters, and our team is dedicated to uncovering all facts related to these tragedies. Where possible, we aim to provide recommendations that can help prevent future incidents and save lives.”

In Summary:

The tragic mudslide near Lillooet has resulted in at least four confirmed deaths and one person still missing. With search efforts concluded due to unsafe conditions and limited options, authorities focus on victim identification and family support.

This disaster serves as a sobering reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of climate-driven extreme weather events in British Columbia, emphasizing the critical need for preparedness and resilience in vulnerable communities.