Authorities in British Columbia have confirmed that three additional bodies were recovered following a devastating mudslide near Lillooet, bringing the known death toll from the incident to four. One person remains missing as officials work to support affected families and assess next steps.
The mudslide, which struck a section of Highway 99 on November 15 after days of heavy rain and severe flooding, left the region dealing with significant damage and difficult search conditions.
Search Efforts Challenged by Hazardous Terrain
Search-and-rescue teams and the RCMP have been on the scene since the incident occurred. B.C. Chief Coroner Lisa Lapointe announced that the first of the three men’s bodies was found Wednesday, with two more located the following day. Earlier in the week, crews had recovered the body of a woman—the first confirmed fatality connected to the storm system that caused widespread landslides and flooding throughout southern B.C.
Staff Sgt. Janelle Shoihet of the B.C. RCMP explained that search crews faced significant challenges, including unstable ground and ongoing severe weather. Due to increasing risks and limited safe access, active search operations have now concluded.
Identification and Support for Families
The process of identifying the three men is underway, and authorities are working closely with families as they receive updates. The fourth missing individual has not yet been located, though officials say discussions are ongoing regarding future recovery efforts.
Highway 99, particularly the heavily impacted stretch known as Duffey Lake Road, remains closed with no timeline for reopening.
Community Impact and Official Response
Chief Coroner Lapointe expressed condolences to everyone who has been affected.
“Our hearts go out to the families experiencing such sudden and difficult loss,” she said. “This has been an extremely challenging period for communities across British Columbia.”
She noted that the province has endured numerous severe weather events this year, reinforcing the importance of safety planning and disaster readiness.
Summary
- Four deaths have been confirmed following the Highway 99 mudslide near Lillooet, B.C.
- One person remains missing.
- Search efforts have been suspended due to unsafe conditions.
- Identification processes and family notifications are ongoing.
- The incident highlights the increasing impacts of extreme weather on vulnerable regions.