Woman’s body recovered at Ice Caves

VERLOT - The Big Four Ice Caves are closed until further notice after a partial collapse killed a 34-year-old woman July 6. Her body was recovered July 7.

July 7, 2015 11:23 am

VERLOT – The Big Four Ice Caves are closed until further notice after a partial collapse killed a 34-year-old woman July 6.

Her body was recovered July 7.

Working with an avalanche technician from the state Department of Transportation, search and rescue personnel used small explosives near the caves to dislodge any possible debris, as well as check for stability of the ice.

Technical rescue teams were able to reach the victim and hoist her out with SnoHAWK 10, the sheriff’s office helicopter.

“Areas of the cave are still collapsing and will continue to do so until the cave no longer exists.  No one should go in or near the cave,” Search and Rescue Deputy Peter Teske said. “The area is not safe.”

The victim was at the back of the cave and, due to extremely dangerous conditions, a safe recovery was difficult, officials said.  Identification of the victim, as well as cause and manner of death, will be released by the Medical Examiner.

One woman and two men were transported by Airlift Northwest with serious injuries to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle. A 14-year-old girl was transported via ground to Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett with minor injuries.

The initial call came in to 9-1-1 around 5:38 p.m. The collapse occurred around 45 minutes earlier.

First responders, search and rescue teams, and the U.S. Forest Service have been training for a similar scenario over the past few months.

“Our biggest problem with rescue operations in this area has always been communication,” Search and Rescue Sgt. Danny Wikstrom said.  There is no cell phone coverage area for several square miles, and radio communication between first responders can be spotty, due to the terrain.”

The popular recreation area is east of Arlington and Marysville.