A man and woman died in the early hours Sunday after a tree fell atop their home in Horseshoe Bay.
In a prepared statement, West Vancouver Police Department spokesperson Const. Kevin Goodmurphy said police were called to the home on the 6200-block of Wellington Avenue with reports that a large tree had fallen on the building.
“While on scene, officers noted downed B.C. Hydro wires and ruptured gas lines that were damaged as a result of the uprooted tree,” Goodmurphy said.
“Emergency crews on scene confirmed the death of two people inside the house. A man in his 60’s and a woman in her 50’s.
“We are supporting the British Columbia Coroners Service as they conduct their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the loss of life. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.”
Roads in the area were closed to traffic as crews worked to remove the tree and debris.
According to video footage taken at the scene, the back corner of the $2.8 million home appears to be completely destroyed by the large fallen conifer that was growing alongside the home.
A social media post by the West Vancouver Minor Hockey Association identifies the victims as former WVMHA President Mike Sharp and his wife Caroline. Sharp was said to be “a selfless leader and a true gentleman.”
Tragic news in our hockey community today. Former WVMHA President Mike Sharp and his wife Caroline died last night as a large tree fell on their house in Horseshoe Bay. We are in shock. Mike was a selfless leader and a true gentleman. #RIP @PCAHAMain @BCHockey_Source pic.twitter.com/uYb3S2YJbT
— West Vancouver Minor Hockey Association (@WestVanHockey) January 3, 2022
