Hiker Finds Deceased Person at Base of Turtle Mountain Cliff on Christmas Day

Emergency responders, including fire crews, paramedics and search and rescue volunteers, remain on duty through the holidays to assist when tragedy strikes.

December 26 2025 - Emergency crews were called to Turtle Mountain in Vernon on Christmas Day after a hiker reported seeing what appeared to be a person lying motionless at the base of a cliff.

In blowing snow SAR team carries victim up steep cliff in rescue stretcher, path ahead illuminated by flashlight

The report came in mid-afternoon on December 25, prompting a response from Vernon Fire Rescue, BC Ambulance Service and the RCMP.

Access to the scene was challenging due to steep terrain and snowy conditions, leading police to request additional assistance from Vernon Search and Rescue.

VSAR later confirmed that its volunteers were tasked with recovering the body of a deceased male.

Working amid snow flurries, search and rescue members used a rope system and a stretcher to safely bring the individual up the cliff, where the RCMP and the BC Coroners Service took over.

No further details have been released, and the death remains under investigation.

While many were spending Christmas Day with family and friends, the incident served as a reminder that emergency responders, including fire crews, paramedics and search and rescue volunteers, remain on duty through the holidays to assist when tragedy strikes.