Searchers recover 2nd body near Canada’s Banff National Park hiking trail
CALGARY, Alberta —
Search teams discovered a second body on Friday following a massive rockfall off a hiking trail in Banff National Park, Canada.
The University of Alberta confirmed that one of the victims of the rockfall was retired educator Jutta Hinrichs, a respected leader in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. She was 70 years old and resided in Calgary.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday afternoon near Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway, approximately 200 kilometers northwest of Calgary. The site is also in close proximity to where the recent Group of Seven summit took place in Kananaskis, Alberta.
Three other individuals were hospitalized but are reportedly in stable condition. There have been no reports of missing persons, and no unidentified vehicles were found at the trailhead.
The trail along Bow Lake is popular among hikers and tourists, offering a moderate challenge. It is a region with limited cell phone reception.
Niclas Brundell, a local trail guide, recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing the rockfall. He and his wife narrowly escaped as a large section of the mountain gave way, causing chaos and devastation.
Brundell described the scene as reminiscent of a disaster, with rocks and debris engulfing the area. Despite the terrifying ordeal, he managed to send a distress signal to Parks Canada for assistance.
The trail, known for its ease of access, attracts numerous hikers during the summer months. Safety precautions and awareness are now emphasized following this tragic event.
