Tragic Ski Lift Accident Claims Life of 13-Year-Old Girl in Outaouais
A 13-year-old girl from Ottawa has tragically died from injuries sustained in a devastating chairlift accident at an Outaouais ski hill last week. The incident occurred during a school outing, casting a shadow over the winter sports community.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Emergency responders arrived at Centre Vorlage ski hill in Wakefield shortly after 2 p.m. on February 11, 2026, following reports of a serious injury on a chairlift. According to police investigations, the young girl's hoodie became dangerously tangled in the chairlift's pull mechanism, which tragically cut off her ability to breathe.
The Ottawa girl was first transported to Wakefield Hospital for immediate medical attention before being transferred to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in Ottawa for specialized care. Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries on Sunday, as confirmed by her parents through a statement issued by CHEO.
Family's Heartbreaking Statement
In their emotional statement, the grieving parents remembered their daughter's vibrant personality, stating: "Her sweet bubbly spirit and love for those around her will live on through the lives she has touched." They also revealed that some of her organs had been donated, creating a legacy of life amid tragedy.
The ski hill, located approximately 40 kilometres north of Ottawa, closed temporarily following the incident but announced plans to reopen its operations on Tuesday as the community grapples with the loss.
Safety Concerns and Community Impact
This tragic accident has raised important questions about chairlift safety protocols and winter sports equipment standards. The specific circumstances involving hoodie entanglement highlight potential hazards that many recreational skiers might not consider.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of:
- Proper clothing and equipment checks before using chairlifts
- Heightened safety awareness during school outings and youth activities
- Regular maintenance and inspection of ski lift mechanisms
- Emergency response preparedness at winter sports facilities
As the investigation continues, the winter sports community mourns the loss of a young life while reflecting on measures that could prevent similar tragedies in the future.
