Skier who fell in deep snow in Banff may have died by suffocation, resort says

Sunshine Village spokesperson says the female victim's cause of death could be 'asphyxiation due to the snow or cardiac arrest'

By Kenn Oliver
Published Dec 29, 2025
Last updated 4 days ago
2 minute read
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A ski resort sign
A trail sign at the Sunshine Village Ski Resort in Banff. A woman died on Saturday, possibly by asphyxiation, after falling into deep, fresh snow while skiing the Banff Avenue green run. AL CHAREST / POSTMEDIA

A woman who fell into a pocket of deep, soft, fresh snow while skiing in Banff on Saturday may have died by suffocation, according to a local ski resort.

The victim was later identified by her brother as 47-year-old Farah Merchant of Toronto.

“She was a loving and devoted mother to her son, Liam, a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, friend,” Faiz Merchant wrote in a Facebook post confirmed by National Post. “She had a kind soul and touched so many lives with her love, warmth, and compassion. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.”