Couple Who Went Missing During Snowmobiling Found Dead Under Ice
RCMP in central British Columbia recovered the bodies of two snowmobilers from Charlotte Lake after the pair went missing while riding nearly a week earlier. Investigators believe the snowmobilers fell through the ice on Feb. 17, and because the lake refroze over the break, the hazardous spot was hidden until search teams located them.
Search and Recovery Efforts Reveal Hidden Dangers
Officers from the Anahim Lake RCMP detachment first learned the couple was missing on Feb. 20 after they were reported not seen since three days prior. Neighbours began searching the area while police were en route, and eventually discovered the two beneath the ice of Charlotte Lake.
A specialized RCMP Underwater Recovery Team with ice-diving training attended the site on Feb. 22 and recovered the bodies, concluding the search operation. Authorities have confirmed no criminality is suspected in the incident.
Victims Identified, Coroners Investigate
The victims were identified as a 65-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman from 100 Mile House, a community located to the south of the accident site. The BC Coroners Service has taken over the investigation into the exact circumstances of their deaths.
RCMP officials warned that fluctuating temperatures can create thin ice in areas that may appear solid, increasing the risks associated with snowmobiling and other activities on frozen lakes. They urged the public to exercise extreme caution when travelling over ice in the winter months.
Safety Reminder as Weather Varies
Variable weather conditions in central B.C. can weaken ice unexpectedly, making it difficult for riders or outdoor enthusiasts to judge whether a surface will support weight. Authorities and outdoor safety groups recommend checking ice thickness before venturing onto frozen lakes and rivers, with sufficient ice depth essential to reduce the likelihood of falls through thin or weak ice.
This tragic event highlights the risks inherent in winter recreation and serves as a reminder for anyone planning to use snowmobiles or other equipment on frozen terrain to take precautions and stay informed about local conditions.
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