Forest products firm Canfor experienced a tragic incident when hired contractors on their way to conduct field survey work were involved in a helicopter crash outside Prince George, B.C. Two people lost their lives in the crash, and four others were injured. The accident occurred near Purden Lake off Highway 16, prompting emergency crews to respond.
Canfor released a statement on Wednesday acknowledging that the survey crew, the helicopter, and its pilot were contracted for field work. However, the company did not disclose the name of the contracting firm or the helicopter’s owner. The company expressed deep sorrow over the loss of two contracted workers and extended condolences to their loved ones.
Michelle Ward, Canfor’s vice-president of corporate communications, expressed the company’s profound sadness over the crash and the loss of life. She conveyed Canfor’s condolences to the friends and family of the deceased individuals, recognizing the heartbreak caused by their untimely deaths.
The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) dispatched investigators to the crash site. TSB spokesman Liam MacDonald confirmed that their team was scheduled to arrive at the scene on Wednesday. This suggests that further investigation will take place to determine the cause of the crash and any contributing factors.
In related stories, readers are directed to articles about other helicopter incidents, such as a helicopter crash near Prince George, BC, that resulted in two fatalities and four injuries, and the death of a helicopter pilot who was fighting a forest fire in Alberta. These incidents highlight the risks faced by individuals working in the field of aviation.