CPR efforts on 'unresponsive' Whistler Blackcomb snowboarder failed

An unconscious snowboarder found at Whistler Blackcomb and later pronounced dead fell in an area of the ski hill with more difficult terrain, according to officials.

The ski patrol responded to a 911 dispatch call Saturday that a 27-year-old male snowboarder had been found "unconscious and unresponsive," according to a statement released today by ski hill officials.

The snowboarder was found near Arthur's Choice — an area described as "gladed," or more hazardous than the normal skill runs. Often it is a zone with thinned-out trees, or other hazards.

The ski patrol found the man at 12:15 p.m. PT and took over CPR from members of the public, the release said.

A support team followed, equipped with an AED defibrillator, but the snowboarder was pronounced dead at 1:17 p.m. PT.

"Whistler Blackcomb would like to express its sincere condolences to the deceased's friends, colleagues and family," said the release.

Yesterday, the BC Coroners Service confirmed that the man's death was an accident and did not involve an avalanche.

The popular resort opened for the season on Wednesday.

Whistler RCMP are investigating the fatality.