B.C. teen dies after hiking mishap in Metro Vancouver backcountry

COQUITLAM, B.C. – A teenaged hiker has died after becoming lost in a rugged area north of Coquitlam, B.C., and falling into a steep gully.

Coquitlam Search and Rescue officials say the unnamed 16-year-old was unresponsive by the time he was found Wednesday night after a short search.

The teen and his friend had lost the trail near Buntzen Lake and were trying to descend an area that searchers described as “steep, slippery and wet,” when the youth fell.

Search manager Ray Nordstrand says the pair had some equipment but it was inadequate for the route they were attempting.

The victim and the surviving teen were airlifted out of the area. (CKNW)