A snowmobile accident on Charlotte Lake has claimed the lives of a 100 Mile House couple.
On Friday, Feb. 20, members of the Anahim Lake RCMP received a report that two snowmobilers had not been seen since Feb. 17. While police were enroute to the scene, neighbours conducted a search and located the couple deceased beneath the ice on Charlotte Lake.
RCMP believe the couple had gone snowmobiling on Feb. 17 when they broke through the ice. Due to the delay in them being reported missing, the break in the ice refroze. On Feb. 22, the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team with specialized ice‑diving training attended the scene and recovered both individuals.
“Variable temperatures significantly increase the risks associated with any activity on frozen lakes or rivers, and we urge everyone to use extreme caution,” Sergeant Scott Clay, Anahim Lake RCMP Detachment Commander, said. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.”
RCMP have identified the deceased as a 65‑year‑old man and a 58‑year‑old woman, both from 100 Mile House. At this time, criminality is not believed to be a factor in these deaths. Next of kin have been notified, and the B.C. Coroners Service is continuing its investigation.
An official cause of death has not been issued at this time.
The victims have been identified by friends and neighbours online as Jude Dion and his wife, Lise, the owners of Exeter Sporting Goods. Dion had operated the store since 2000, after he bought the business from his father, Jean. Exeter Sporting Goods is currently closed indefinitely due to the tragedy.