Skip to content

Two injured in Koocanusa ATV accidents

Two ATV users were injured in separate accidents on Saturday, April 4 at the Lake Koocanusa mudbogs.
28518ferniefpPhototakenfromCranbrookSearchandRescuecopy
Cranbrook Search and Rescue were called to the Koocanusa Mudbogs following an ATV accident.

Two ATV users were injured in separate accidents on Saturday, April 4 at the Lake Koocanusa mudbogs.

A 19-year-old male from Nelson was tended to by medical services when he lost control of his ATV. He attempted to jump off of the ATV and was ultimately crushed when it rolled on top of him.

“It was originally our belief he had sustained serious injuries but once police and ambulance arrived on scene, we found that he sustained no life-threatening injuries, just minor injuries to his head and chest,” said Cranbrook Staff Sgt. Dave Dubnyk.

Due to the roughness of the mudbogs, a helicopter had to be used to evacuate the patient at approximately 6:30 p.m. Cranbrook Search and Rescue (CBKSAR) assisted by blocking off traffic to the helicopter. The patient was taken to the East Kootenay Regional Hospital for treatment.

A second ATV user, a female in her mid to late 20s was packed up in an ambulance after sustaining head and neck injuries when she went over her handlebars.

The female patient was transported by ambulance to hospital.

Director of the CBKSAR board and search manager Nick Bedwell said the people injured were not wearing helmets.

“It’s extremely important for people to wear helmets in situations like this. Both of those injured could have sustained more serious injuries and they are very lucky they escaped with the injuries that they did,” said Bedwell.