Shannon Falls park closed due to gondola investigation

Shannon Falls Provincial Park has been closed until further notice while police investigates the vandalism to the gondola.

“This park is closed until further notice as part of the investigation into the Sea to Sky Gondola vandalism,” said BC Parks.

Sgt. Sascha Banks of Squamish RCMP said police will have a better idea of the suspect after different investigative teams come together to share all the details.

She said a description of the suspect or suspects may be released in the next 24 to 48 hours.

Sgt. Banks didn’t give any details of last year’s investigation into the gondola vandalism, but said the investigation is still on.

“I can’t comment as that investigation is ongoing but we will look at the links between what happened today and what happened 13 months ago,” she said.

Banks said police worked with the gondola when it reopened and are aware of their security and notification systems for such incidents.

She also said officers frequently visit the gondola and know the area quite well.

“We are well versed with the landscape,” she added.

Squamish RCMP will be comparing both the incidents to determine the links, and also if the same individual is responsible for the second act of vandalism as well.

Mayor Karen Elliott has expressed her shock and disappointment at the news of vandalism.

“Our hearts go out to the Sea to Sky Gondola team, who are such an important and valuable part of our community,” she said.

Kirby Brown, the manager of the Sea to Sky Gondola, said it’s time that the individual or individuals responsible for the crime be brought to justice.

“For me, this is someone sabotaging our business. What their motivation is I don’t know, and we will work with RCMP to ensure the person is brought to justice.”