Police search for missing skier at B.C.’s Sun Peaks resort

Search crews are looking for a missing skier last seen at the Sun Peaks resort near Kamloops, B.C.

The Tk’emlúps Rural RCMP Detachment said it had received a missing person’s report for Tomasz Jaholkowski, 68, whose last known movements were to check into a run at the resort around 11:35 a.m. PT Tuesday.

“Mr. Jaholkowski does not appear to have returned to his hotel room, nor has he been heard from since checking into the run on Tuesday,” said Kamloops RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Crystal Evelyn in a news release.

“We are very concerned for his well-being and are asking anyone who may have seen him or has information on his potential whereabouts, to please contact police as soon as possible.”

A map shows ski trails
The new West Bowl Express chairlift offers skiers access to expanded terrain. (Sun Peaks Resort)

Sun Peaks spokesperson Christina Antoniak confirmed with CBC News that Jaholkowski last checked in at the West Bowl Express chairlift, a new lift that opened this season at the resort, which lies around 35 kilometres northeast of Kamloops.

The new lift offers skiers and snowboarders access to more terrain, according to Sun Peaks.

A white man in his 60s with grey hair,
Another image of Jaholkowski released by RCMP. Police, search and rescue and Sun Peaks patrol are all looking for the 68-year-old with the help of helicopters and drones. (RCMP)

Police, search and rescue, and Sun Peaks patrol are all looking for Jaholkowski with the help of helicopters and drones.

He’s described as five feet 10 inches tall, weighing about 180 pounds, with grey hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a red and black ski jacket, dark ski pants and a dark helmet.

Two skiers who went out of bounds earlier this year at Sun Peaks were helped back to safety by ski patrol, according to Antoniak.

She says the area around the West Bowl is well signed and roped off but that it can provide easier access to the backcountry.

On its website, Sun Peaks recommends visitors stay within bounds for their safety. People who decide to go out of bounds are urged to not 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. 

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Posted in CBC