Seven Bodies Found In Search For Missing Canadian Snowmobilers

December 30, 2008 4:36 a.m. EST

Fernie, British Columbia (AHN) - Seven bodies have been found by rescuers searching for eight snowmobile riders trapped under snow in the slopes of western Canada.

Two avalanches on Sunday buried a group of 11 men from the small coal-mining town of Sparwood who were out on their snowmobiles. The first one buried seven of the men. Four others were buried by the second slide as they tried to dig out their friends, and, for some, family members.

Three of the men were able to pull themselves out of the snow. They tried to find their companions but had to leave the area because of the threat of another avalanche. One of them was also injured.

Rescuers blasted the slope with bombs early Monday before searching with dogs. The search for the eighth rider continues as victims' families hold a candlelight vigil to mourn their loss.