The Squamish RCMP is investigating after a woman fell from the first peak of the Stawamus Chief peak on Sunday. According to Sgt. Wayne Pride, the woman fell to her death at some point between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m.
She was reportedly alone on the first peak witnesses have told police, said Pride, adding that at least one person who saw the fall called for help.
Pride said the woman suffered significant injuries in the fatal fall. If she was carrying identification or a mobile phone Pride said it didn't stay with her in the fall. He added that the body had to be airlifted out from the final resting place after search and rescue crews recovered it.
While the RCMP is investigating, trying to determine the woman's name the BC Coroners Service is also looking into the tragic death.
"We had members out last night checking vehicles' plates, putting notice letters on windshields just saying we're looking to identify this individual," said Pride.
He noted that many people camp at the top of the popular hiking and climbing area so there were a number of vehicles in the parking lot through the evening.
Other policing agencies have been alerted in case a missing person file is created describing someone with similar characteristics.
Pride said foul play has been ruled out at this point but beyond that, he added, the police just don't have enough information to understand what happened in the lead up to the fall.
"She may have been in a rough area, not prepared and fell," said Pride.
Additional RCMP members have been called in to help determine what happened and discover the identity of the victim.
"The big thing is, of course, trying to identify this lady initially and work from there with family, friends and next of kin," Pride said.
The woman is described as Caucasian, with blue eyes and curly brown hair. She was wearing a blue sports bra and green khaki shorts. Pride said investigators didn't have any information on her footwear because it appears her shoes came off in the fall.
Anyone with information on this matter is asked to call the RCMP in Squamish at 604-892-6100.
