A devastating mudslide near Lillooet turned a stretch of Highway 99, also known as Duffey Lake Road, into a deadly disaster zone after record rainfall triggered massive landslides. Mud, rocks, and trees swept vehicles from the roadway, trapping travelers and causing widespread destruction.
Rescue crews and survivors worked desperately to save those buried in the debris. Authorities later confirmed five fatalities, including Anita and Mirsad Hadzic, Steven Taylor, Brett Diederichs, and Kevin Heffner. Brett Diederichs was never recovered after reportedly helping his family reach safety before being swept away.
The tragedy deeply affected communities across Canada, highlighting both the destructive power of extreme weather and the bravery shown by ordinary people during the crisis. Officials later launched investigations into the disaster while discussions grew around infrastructure safety and climate-related risks in mountainous regions.
