The Canadian province of British Columbia was shocked this week by the death of three men following an avalanche during a helicopter skiing trip (heli-skiing) in the Kootenay area of the southeast part of the province, in what is one of the most tragic incidents of this season.

The victims were part of a group of ten skiers and two mountain guides when they were caught by the avalanche in a rugged mountainous area. The death of three men was confirmed at the accident site, while a fourth was transported to the hospital in critical condition, and the rest of the group survived without serious injuries.

The company “RK Heliski,” which operated the trip, expressed its deep sorrow over what happened, noting its complete cooperation with the relevant authorities that have opened an investigation to determine the circumstances of the avalanche.

Expressions of condolence poured in from the victims' families and friends, who recalled their passion for adventure and their free spirit, at a time when renewed calls were made to tighten safety measures in skiing activities in high-risk areas.

It is noted that British Columbia is one of the most avalanche-prone areas in Canada, especially during the winter season, which attracts thousands of adventurers from both within the country and abroad.