LILLOOET, B.C. — A devastating mudslide along British Columbia’s Highway 99 has claimed four lives, while one person remains missing after authorities ended an extensive search operation in an area battered by unstable terrain and heavy debris.
The tragedy unfolded near Duffey Lake Road, where a massive slide swept vehicles from the highway during severe weather. Rescue crews faced dangerous conditions as they worked through mud, rocks, trees and other debris in an effort to locate those who may have been trapped.
Authorities initially recovered the body of a woman from the debris field. Three additional men were later found during the search, bringing the confirmed death toll to four. Global News reported that police suspended the search after several days, with one man still unaccounted for.
The recovery operation involved police, search-and-rescue personnel, specialized teams and forensic investigators. Responders had to contend with difficult weather and unstable conditions that complicated efforts to safely reach portions of the slide area.
For families waiting for answers, the end of the active search marked another painful turning point. While four victims have been recovered, authorities were unable to locate the remaining missing person.
The mudslide occurred during a period of severe flooding and extreme rainfall across British Columbia. Highway 99, one of the region’s important transportation corridors, was heavily affected by landslides and debris, with sections of the route closed as crews assessed the damage.
The incident also highlighted the dangers facing motorists traveling through mountainous areas during periods of intense weather. The slide reportedly swept between five and seven vehicles off the highway, sending them down an embankment and into a large debris field.
Survivors described a terrifying scene as mud and debris moved rapidly through the area, while strangers and emergency responders helped people escape.
The deaths have left families and communities mourning as officials continue documenting what happened.
With four people confirmed dead and another still missing, the disaster remains a stark reminder of the devastating force of landslides — and how quickly extreme weather can turn a familiar highway into a deadly scene.
