Blackcomb snowboarder suffocated after falling into deep powder

Police have confirmed a27-year-old snowboarderwho died on BlackcombMountain this past weekend suffocated after falling face first into deep powder.

Sgt. Rob Knapton of the Whistler RCMPsaid a big snowfall on the mountain in the previous days contributed to the tragedy.

"There was quite a bit of loose, unconsolidated snow snow that is quite fluffy and has a lot of air in it," said Knapton.

"It appears he fell face firstand with a snowboard on of course he has limited mobility with his legs. If he's not able to create an air space or get out of that snow because of how deep it is or how loose it is, then eventually someone may suffocate."

The man, who was from Slovakia but lived in Whistler, was riding in a treed or gladed run known as Arthur's Choice inside the ski resort's boundaries.

Knapton could not say if the man hit an obstacle or his head during the fall. He was riding with his girlfriend but they had become separated.

He was later found by other skiers unconscious and unresponsive around 12:15 p.m. Saturday. Efforts to revive him with CPR and a defibrillator failed and he was pronounced dead an hour later.

"Everyone needs to be aware that they need to exercise caution, especially in the early part of the season," said Knapton. "There are hazards that exist both in bounds as well as out."