Missing skier found dead near Sun Peaks resort in B.C. Interior

A 68-year-old skier has been found dead, RCMP in Kamloops say.

Tomasz Jaholkowski, 68, was reported missing from the Sun Peaks ski resort after failing to return from a day on the slopes on Dec. 10.

He had last been at the West Bowl Express chairlift, a new lift which takes skiers to a large area on the resort’s boundary.

According to a post from Sun Peaks Resort, he was found on Dec. 12 outside the ski-area boundary.

In a statement shared Friday, RCMP say no criminality is suspected, and the B.C. Coroners Service has been notified of the death.

In an earlier interview, Sun Peaks spokesperson Christina Antoniak confirmed Jaholkowski was the third person to go missing after using the newly opened ski lift this season, though the other two were quickly found alive.

She said the resort is reviewing the signage and markings aimed at indicating to visitors where the ski area ends. The edges of the boundary are already double-roped, she said, with signs indicating not to go out of bounds.

On its website, Sun Peaks recommends visitors stay within bounds for their safety. People who decide to go out of bounds are urged not to do so alone, to have avalanche training, and to carry equipment, including a transceiver, shovel, probe, extra clothing, food and water, communication devices, and emergency supplies. 

“Mountain recreation is meant to be a source of joy,” the resort said in its statement. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Mr. Jaholkowski’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”