A former Whistler helicopter pilot has died in a training crash near Chilliwack.
Dave Brolin, who joined the RCMP as a civilian in 2006, previously worked for Blackcomb helicopters and flew many missions for search and rescue.
Said Premier Christy Clark: "I was deeply saddened to learn of this tragic loss and my thoughts are with the family, friends and co-workers of pilot Dave Brolin, who was a civilian member of the RCMP.
"This serves as a reminder to all of us of the bravery and dedication of emergency responders who work to further public safety and aid British Columbians in times of great need."
In a press conference held by the RCMP Chief Superintendent Wayne Rideout said Brolin had just successfully completed a training exercise and was preparing to return to base when the helicopter crashed just before 2 p.m. Tuesday.
Brolin, 46, was the sole occupant and was taken to hospital by RCMP Emergency Response Team members who were part of the training exercise.
He was piloting the RCMP's Air 5 at the time of the crash.
The Transportation Safety Board is investigating.
