Tragic Incident Unfolds

In a devastating turn of events, the second body of a resident from a home obliterated by a landslide in Lions Bay, British Columbia, was recovered on Saturday, December 16, confirming the worst fears of a grieving community. Search and rescue crews discovered Barbara Enns's body late in the evening, just a day after the landslide claimed her husband David Enns.

Impact of the Windstorm

The tragic incident unfolded during an intense windstorm that battered the South Coast of B.C., knocking out electricity for thousands and toppling trees across the region. The debris flow not only swept the couple's house off its foundation, sending it tumbling down a steep hill, but also blocked the Sea to Sky Highway for nearly 18 hours.

Community Grief and Support

Lions Bay Mayor Ken Berry expressed his heartfelt condolences in a letter to residents, identifying the deceased couple. "This is a profound loss for the family, friends, neighbours, and all residents of Lions Bay. We stand united in our sorrow and send our love to the family," he wrote, reflecting the deep impact of this tragedy on the tight-knit community.

State of Emergency Declared

The Squamish RCMP confirmed the recovery of Barbara's body around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, as efforts to locate her continued after David was identified earlier in the week. In response to this calamity, the municipality has declared a state of emergency, enabling them to tap into additional provincial resources necessary for the ongoing recovery efforts.

Counseling and Financial Assistance

As the community grapples with the grief, Mayor Berry announced that counseling and financial assistance are being made available to residents impacted by the landslide. Currently, two homes on Goldenrod Avenue remain under an evacuation order, with alerts issued for three properties on Brunswick Beach Road.

Investigation into Mudslide

Authorities continue to investigate the origins of the mudslide, which appears to have started in Battani Creek. The investigation is crucial not only for understanding how such a tragedy occurred but also for preventing future incidents in this picturesque but vulnerable coastal community.

Looking Ahead: Community Resilience

As Lions Bay rallies together to support one another through this difficult time, the question looms: How can communities enhance resilience against natural disasters in the face of climate change?