Tragic Gondola Accident at Canadian Ski Resort Leaves One Dead and Another in Critical Condition
By Jon Brown, Fox News | July 18, 2023 | 12:11pm
MONTREAL, QUEBEC – In a devastating accident at the Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort near Montreal, Quebec, a man lost his life and a woman is currently fighting for hers in the hospital after being knocked out of a sightseeing gondola on Sunday. According to the Associated Press, the incident occurred when a piece of equipment struck the car, causing the victims to fall out.
Authorities have identified the man and woman as Ontario residents in their 50s. The woman remains in critical condition, raising concerns about her recovery. The accident, reported as a drilling machine-related incident, has prompted questions about the reasons behind operating such equipment under the gondola, with authorities not ruling out criminal negligence, as reported by the CBC.
Sûreté du Québec spokesperson Éric Cadotte described the impact as “very brutal” and expressed astonishment regarding the presence of a drilling machine beneath the gondolas on a Sunday. The provincial police have launched an investigation into the matter and are currently speaking with witnesses, including resort workers and the operator of the drilling machine.
The Tremblant Resort Association shared a Facebook post announcing the suspension of all activities at the resort following the incident. The tragedy has cast a dark cloud over the popular destination, leaving visitors and staff in shock.
The association confirmed that the accident involved the resort’s panoramic gondola and construction machinery operated by a third party. “It is with deep regret that we confirm, following the announcement by the Sûreté du Québec, that one of the two victims was pronounced deceased, while the other has been transferred to the hospital,” stated a spokesperson for the Tremblant Resort Association.
Annique Aird, the vice president of sales, marketing, and communications at the resort, expressed her heartfelt condolences. “We are saddened by this situation, and Station Mont Tremblant offers its most sincere condolences to all those involved,” Aird said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.
As the investigation continues, authorities will work towards uncovering the cause of the accident and determining accountability for the tragic loss of life and serious injuries.