The remains of a young man who disappeared while hiking in Squamish, B.C., have been discovered almost 10 months later. Alexander Nguyen went missing on July 1, 2025, while sightseeing with his parents in Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Despite extensive search efforts by Search and Rescue and the Squamish RCMP, the 20-year-old was never located.
Nguyen’s last cellphone signal was detected at 3:30 p.m. PT on July 1 along the Sea-to-Summit trail, beyond its connection point with upper Shannon Falls. Shannon Falls, standing at 335 meters above Highway 99, ranks as the third tallest waterfall in British Columbia, according to B.C. Parks.
Shannon Falls is a popular spot with various hiking trails, such as the challenging Shannon Falls Pools Trail spanning 2.1 kilometers through dense forest, rocky areas, and steep cliffs overlooking the waterfalls. On April 24, individuals in the area reported the discovery of human remains near Shannon Falls to the police.
Sea to Sky RCMP Inspector Robert Dykstra confirmed the recovery of the remains the following day, identifying them as belonging to Nguyen. Dykstra expressed condolences to Nguyen’s family for the difficult months of uncertainty and pain they endured during his disappearance.
Authorities stated that there is no suspicion of foul play, and the police investigation has been closed. Sue Nicholson, manager of Squamish Search and Rescue, described the challenging terrain near Shannon Falls where the remains were retrieved, emphasizing the steep cliffs and logs that rescuers had to navigate.
While the B.C. Coroners Service continues its investigation, Dykstra cautioned the public about the risks of hiking in Squamish, particularly in areas like the Stawamus Chief and Shannon Falls, which can be hazardous without adequate preparation. The 2018 incident where three hikers lost their lives at Shannon Falls serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present in the region.
In 2018, Vancouver residents Ryker Gamble, Alexey Lyakh, and Megan Scraper tragically died at Shannon Falls following an accident. Witnesses recounted seeing Scraper fall from the rocks at the waterfall’s peak into the swift waters, prompting the men to attempt a rescue.
It is crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to prioritize safety by carrying essentials like water and food, wearing suitable attire, checking weather conditions, and selecting trails appropriate for their skill level when exploring Squamish’s challenging landscapes.