A tragic incident occurred at a coal mine in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia, near the Alberta border, resulting in the death of a 39-year-old man from Hosmer. The Elk Valley RCMP received a report of the man’s disappearance at Elk Valley Resources’ Elkview Operations in Sparwood, approximately 150 kilometers southwest of Calgary. Following the report, Elk Valley rescue teams, supported by the RCMP, initiated a search and located the man’s remains the next morning.
The mine’s owner, Glencore Canada, confirmed that the deceased individual was a contracted employee performing maintenance duties at the time of the accident. CEO Mike Carrucan expressed condolences to the man’s family, friends, and colleagues, acknowledging the challenging period faced by the Elkview Operations workforce. The company is offering support services and counseling to its employees during this difficult time.
RCMP Cpl. Brett Urano confirmed that the man’s family has been notified, and authorities, including the B.C. Coroners Service and the B.C. Mining Ministry, are on-site for the investigation. Glencore announced plans for a comprehensive inquiry into the incident.
Further details surrounding the circumstances of the fatality have not been disclosed. CBC News has contacted WorkSafeBC, B.C.’s workplace regulator, for additional information.