Avalanche rocks the snow world: a professional snowboarder and two important businessmen die in tragedy while waiting for a helicopter
An avalanche killed three respected figures in the world of snow sports—and a fourth is in critical condition—as they waited for a helicopter.
An avalanche on Monday, March 24, in the Kootenay Mountains, east of Kaslo Lake (British Columbia, Canada), has shaken the snowboarding and skiing world, claiming the lives of three influential figures in the industry: professional snowboarder Jeff Keenan, The North Face executive Alex Pashley, and guide and entrepreneur Jason Remple. A fourth member of the group, a 40-year-old man from Nelson, was seriously injured and remains in critical condition.
The tragedy occurred in the Clute Creek basin, within the terrain operated by Stellar Heli Skiing. The four men were awaiting helicopter pickup after a day on the mountain when the avalanche struck around 12:30 p.m. The pilot, approaching the area, witnessed the slide as it overwhelmed the group.
Jason Remple, 53, of Kaslo, was the owner and head guide of Stellar Heli Skiing, a company he founded with his wife in 2005. In 2022, they expanded their commitment to mountain tourism by acquiring the historic Kaslo Hotel.
Jeff Keenan, 44, originally from Whistler, was a pivotal figure in Canadian snowboarding. He co-founded the Dinosaurs Will Die brand and was part of “The Skids,” a legendary collective that dominated the sport in the 1990s and 2000s. He was the partner of professional snowboarder Leanne Pelosi and the father of a young son. Pelosi shared a heartbreaking message on social media following his passing.
Alex Pashley, 45, of Idaho, was the global sports marketing manager (snow sports) at The North Face. A talented photographer and communicator, he had previously worked with brands such as Rossignol, Smartwool, and Dragon. “His quest for adventure will always guide us,” The North Face wrote in a tribute.
According to Avalanche Canada, the risk level on the day of the incident was rated 4 out of 5 due to weak layers at depth, rising temperatures, and recent snowfall. Despite the group’s extensive experience and careful terrain selection, the extreme conditions proved deadly.
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In response to the tragedy, Stellar Heli Skiing has temporarily suspended operations, and the British Columbia coroner’s office has launched an investigation. The mountain community, deeply shaken, mourns the loss of three of its most respected members. Rest in peace.
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