The bodies of three men have been recovered from a mudslide near Lillooet, British Columbia, while one individual remains unaccounted for, following an extensive multi-day search operation, according to Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Search efforts intensified throughout the week after a powerful mudslide struck a section of Highway 99, also known as Duffey Lake Road, south of Lillooet. The slide was triggered by severe flooding and extreme rainfall that swept through southern British Columbia last weekend, causing widespread damage, road closures, and multiple emergency responses.
According to a written statement released Saturday by Lisa Lapointe, British Columbia’s Chief Coroner, one deceased individual was recovered on Wednesday, followed by the discovery of two additional bodies on Thursday. Despite continued efforts on Friday, search teams were unable to locate a fourth man reported missing in the area.
Earlier in the week, on Monday, the body of a woman was also recovered from the mudslide site. Authorities confirmed she was the first fatality directly linked to the severe flooding and landslides that have impacted the province during this extreme weather event. Her recovery underscored the deadly consequences of the storm system that overwhelmed parts of British Columbia in a matter of days.
Lapointe stated that all available search avenues have now been exhausted, and active search operations have officially concluded. However, she noted that discussions are ongoing among authorities to determine the most appropriate next steps moving forward, given the unstable terrain and ongoing safety concerns at the site.
Authorities are currently working to formally identify the three recovered men and to notify their next of kin. Officials emphasized that this process must be handled with care and accuracy, particularly given the condition of the site and the circumstances surrounding the recoveries.
At present, four individuals are listed as unaccounted for in connection with the mudslide south of Lillooet, according to the RCMP. Law enforcement agencies, along with search-and-rescue teams, had been actively searching the debris field since the slide occurred on November 15. However, challenging conditions—including unstable ground, debris depth, and worsening weather—significantly hindered recovery efforts.
RCMP Staff Sgt. Janelle Shoihet confirmed that adverse weather and dangerous site conditions played a major role in limiting search operations, making continued efforts unsafe for responders. These risks ultimately contributed to the decision to conclude active searches.
In her statement, Lapointe extended condolences to the affected families, saying, “I also extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who are now grieving the sudden and unexpected death of their loved one, and to the family of the missing person we have so far been unable to locate.”
She added that the year has been especially difficult for communities across British Columbia, many of which have endured repeated natural disasters and tragic losses. Lapointe emphasized that the BC Coroners Service will continue its work to determine the facts surrounding these deaths and, where possible, provide recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Meanwhile, the affected stretch of Highway 99 remains closed to motorists, with no timeline announced for reopening. Officials warn that the area continues to pose serious safety risks due to ongoing instability and the potential for further landslides.
As communities near Lillooet begin to process the loss and devastation caused by the mudslide, authorities stress the importance of caution, preparedness, and continued support for those affected by one of the most severe weather events the region has faced in recent years.
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