Drone plays vital role in Sun Peaks rescue

Feb 20, 2017 | 6:05 PM

KAMLOOPS — All seven people reported missing Monday at a ski resort near Kamloops, British Columbia have been found safe.

Alan Hobler with Kamloops Search and Rescue says three people were found late Monday in fair condition, but the search at the Sun Peaks Resort continued overnight for the other four.

WATCH: Full report by Adam Donnelly

Hobler says the remaining members of the group that included five skiers and two snowboarders were located at various times after midnight, with the last two spotted and brought to safety about 3 a.m.

There was concern because the seven had entered a hazardous gully where Hobler says they could have ended up in a creek or stranded by the steep terrain.

He says the 18-member search crew was assisted by mild conditions that included a low avalanche hazard temperature of around -1°c.

Rescuers also used infrared-equipped drones to lead them to the last four people because none was believed to be carrying cellphones or other electronics.