UPDATE:

Constable Wade Tittemore, 43, died.

Constable Mathieu Nolet, 28, was critically inured.

MIKE Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, on Tuesday released the following statement on the death of a City of Nelson police officer:

“Our hearts go out to the family, friends and colleagues of the off-duty Nelson police officer killed yesterday in an avalanche while snowmobiling near Kaslo.

“On behalf of all British Columbians, we send our deepest condolences to everyone affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts are also with the officer who was critically injured, and we wish them well as they begin to recover.

“We want to thank the agencies and first responders who have helped with the rescue operation. As always, they stepped up quickly to help, and we thank them for their efforts.

“This is a tremendous loss for Nelson and for policing in British Columbia, and we are here to support the Nelson Police Department and the City of Nelson in this difficult time.”

MEANWHILE, the RCMP said in a statement on Tuesday that an avalanche on Monday near the Groat Range Provincial Park had resulted in the death of one person and critical injuries to a second.

On January 9 at 12:23 p.m., the Kaslo RCMP were called to a report of an avalanche near the Groat Range Provincial Park. Two skiers were caught in the avalanche, one of whom was rescued and provided first aid by others in the area, while the search began for the second. The second individual was later located. Unfortunately, efforts to save their life were unsuccessful. The injured skier was evacuated by helicopter to a local area hospital in critical condition.

The two appear to have entered the area by way of snowmobile and hiked to ski a bowl in the alpine.

“Thanks to the bystanders for their quick action in recovering and providing care for the skiers,” said Cpl. Harland Venema of the Kaslo RCMP.

The Kaslo RCMP continue to assist the BC Coroners Service in the investigation.