As the sun set over the rugged mountains of Banff National Park last evening, park officials confirmed what many had feared – a second fatality resulting from Monday’s devastating rock slide. The incident, which occurred along the popular Bow Valley Parkway, has cast a somber mood over Canada’s first national park during what should be the beginning of its bustling summer season.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a second visitor has succumbed to injuries sustained during the rock slide event,” said Sarah Hughes, communications officer for Parks Canada. “Our thoughts are with the families and friends affected by this tragedy during this difficult time.”
The slide struck without warning shortly after noon on Monday, sending massive limestone boulders cascading onto a section of the parkway approximately 20 kilometers west of the Banff townsite. Initial reports indicated one person died at the scene while three others sustained serious injuries and were transported to hospitals in Calgary and Canmore.
The second victim, whose identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin, had been in critical condition at Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary before passing away late Wednesday. Hospital spokesperson Michael Chen declined to provide specific details about the injuries but noted that trauma teams “worked tirelessly to save the patient.”
For Bow Valley residents like Trevor Macpherson, who has worked as a hiking guide in the park for over fifteen years, the incident hits particularly close to home. “This parkway is a lifeline for so many of us. We drive it almost daily during the summer months,” he told me during a brief conversation at a local coffee shop. “You never think something like this could happen on such a well-traveled route.”
Geologists from the University of Calgary have been called to the site to assess the cause of the slide and evaluate the risk of further instability. Dr. Elena Kostova, head of the assessment team, explained that spring’s freeze-thaw cycles can create dangerous conditions.
“What we’re seeing isn’t uncommon in mountain environments during this transitional season,” Kostova said. “Water seeps into rock fractures, freezes, expands, and eventually, after multiple cycles, can dislodge even massive sections of mountainside.”
Parks Canada has extended the closure of the affected section of the Bow Valley Parkway indefinitely as crews continue clearing operations and safety assessments. The closure impacts access to several popular hiking trails and viewpoints, including Johnston Canyon, one of the park’s most visited attractions.
Tourism operators in the region are feeling the impact but emphasize that visitor safety remains paramount. “Yes, this will affect some of our tours, but we’re working closely with Parks Canada to adapt,” said Jennifer Winters, who operates a local tour company. “The mountains demand respect, and sometimes that means plans change.”
According to park visitation data, approximately 15,000 vehicles travel the Bow Valley Parkway daily during peak summer months, making it one of the busiest scenic routes in the Canadian Rockies. Alternative routes remain available for visitors hoping to experience the park’s renowned landscapes.
The RCMP has established a support center at the Banff Park Lodge for those affected by the incident, with mental health professionals on site to provide counseling services. Sergeant Robert Davidson noted that many witnesses to the slide have come forward, visibly shaken by what they experienced.
“Events like these remind us of nature’s power,” Davidson said. “We’re seeing strong community support, with local businesses and residents stepping up to help those who were stranded or displaced by the closure.”
Climate scientists point out that such incidents may become more frequent as changing weather patterns affect mountain stability. Environment Canada data shows that the Bow Valley has experienced more dramatic temperature fluctuations in recent spring seasons, conditions that can accelerate erosion and rock fracturing.
For now, the community’s focus remains on supporting those directly impacted by the tragedy. Banff Mayor Corrie DiManno has announced a candlelight vigil to be held in Central Park on Friday evening.
“Our mountain community is resilient, but we’re hurting,” DiManno said in a statement released through the town’s official channels. “This vigil will provide a space for collective grieving and support.”
As recovery operations continue, Parks Canada officials emphasize that safety warnings and trail closures should be strictly observed throughout the park. Visitors are encouraged to check the Parks Canada website or app for the most current information before planning excursions.
The rock slide serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable forces at work in mountain environments, even in areas that seem serene and secure. As one park ranger who asked not to be named put it: “The mountains are always moving. Sometimes we just don’t notice until moments like this.”
