A specialized diver works to recover two victims from beneath the surface of Charlotte Lake. (Image Credit: Contributed / Anahim Lake RCMP)
Snowmobiling mishap

Plunge through ice in Chilcotin kills pair of 100 Mile House snowmobilers

Feb 23, 2026 | 3:46 PM

ANAHIM LAKE, B.C. — The bodies of two South Cariboo snowmobilers have been recovered after they were found beneath the icy surface of a Chilcotin lake.

According to Anahim Lake RCMP, the man and woman were reported missing last Friday (Feb. 20). The pair had not been seen for three days.

As officers were en route to Charlotte Lake, neighbours located the bodies of both victims beneath the ice.

RCMP believe the two were snowmobiling on the lake when they broke through. In the interim, the lake had re-frozen, concealing the spot where they plunged into the water.

On Sunday, officers from the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team recovered both victims.

A specialized diver works to recover two bodies from below the surface of Charlotte Lake.
A specialized diver works to recover two bodies from below the surface of Charlotte Lake. (Image Credit: Contributed / Anahim Lake RCMP)

The two have been identified as a 65-year-old man and 58-year-old woman from 100 Mile House.

“Variable temperatures significantly increase the risks associated with any activity on frozen lakes or rivers, and we urge everyone to use extreme caution,” said Sgt. Scott Clay of the Anahim Lake RCMP detachment. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.”

RCMP have alerted the BC Coroners Service. Criminal activity is not believed to have been a factor in the incident.