Iqaluit man killed in snowmobile collision

Johnny Nowdlak, a well-known Inuit hunter and conservation officer in Iqaluit, was killed in a snowmobile collision Monday night. He was 47 years old.

Nowdlak was returning homefrom a hunting trip with his son when his snowmobile collided with a snowmobilebelongingto Courtney Dunphy, 20, less than one kilometre outsideNunavut's capitalcity.

Nowdlak was pronounced dead at Qikiqtani General Hospital in Iqaluit.

Dunphy, who is also an Iqaluit resident, was medevaced to an Ottawa hospital early Tuesday morning. She is currently listed in critical condition, according to RCMP.

Police say weather conditions and terrain do not appear to be contributing factors behind the collision.

"The two snowmobile drivers were out for most of the day snowmobiling and were both headed back to Iqaluit from different locations on the bay when they collided with each other," Iqaluit RCMP stated in a release late Tuesday.

"It is believed both drivers were not wearing helmets at the time of the collision."

Speed is also believed to be a factor in the collision, according to police.

Longtime conservation officer

Nowdlak had worked for Nunavut's Environment Department as a conservation officer for the past 11 years.

'Nunavut can't afford to lose men like him. He will be dearly missed.' Steve Pinksen

Steve Pinksen, the department's director of policy planning and legislation, told CBC News that Nowdlak was an excellent hunter whohad "amazing land skills."

"If you were ever going to be in a bind or a tight spot, he was the person you wanted with you. He knew the land and water around here like very few do," Pinksensaid in an email.

"Nunavut can't afford to lose men like him. He will be dearly missed."

Nowdlak was also described as a good man who was always friendly and had a great sense of humour. Pinksen said Nowdlak, an avid hunter, often brought harvested food back to the community.

The Amarok Hunters and Trappers Organization said Nowdlak was always willing to educate people about wildlife and the land.

Nowdlak's funeral is scheduled for Thursday in Iqaluit. RCMP continue to investigate the incident.