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UQSUQTUUQ/GJOA HAVEN
A Canadian Ranger was killed in a snowmobile accident near Gjoa Haven in the early evening of Feb. 17, according to the RCMP.

Canadian Ranger Cpl. Donald Anguyoak, left, died in a snowmobile accident in Gjoa Haven on Feb. 17. - photo courtesy of the Department of National Defence

Ranger Cpl. Donald Anguyoak, 46, died while participating in a Canadian Rangers exercise, RCMP Cpl. Yvonne Niego confirmed. She said the coroner is investigation the death, which is considered accidental.

Anguyoak was born and raised in Baker Lake before moving to Gjoa Haven. His accident happened during Exercise Polar Passage, part of the Canadian Ranger Ocean Watch program, which monitors snow and ice conditions along the Northwest Passage.

The winter ice study is on hold in Gjoa Haven until further notice but will continue in three other communities, said Lt. Paul Pendergast, public affairs officer with Joint Task Force North.

The Canadian Forces will conduct an inquiry into Anguyoak's death, he said, but for now, thoughts and prayers are with Anguyoak's family and friends of friends. The accident serves as a reminder the North is a harsh environment, said Pendergast.

"The investigation will be conducted thoroughly. They will look at all the factors contributing to the accident and make recommendations," he said.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper offered his condolences to the family and friends of Anguyoak.

"This is a stark reminder of the very real dangers the Canadian Rangers and other members of the Canadian Armed Forces face regularly while promoting national security and exercising sovereignty in our harsh Northern territories," stated Harper. "Cpl. Anguyoak's sacrifice in the name of defending his country will be honoured and remembered."

Premier Eva Aariak offered condolences to Anguyoak's family, friends and fellow Rangers on behalf of the government.

"Cpl. Anguyoak has made the ultimate sacrifice for his country," stated Aariak. "We hope there is some comfort in knowing he was providing an invaluable service to both Nunavummiut and Canadians."

National Inuit Leader Terry Audla said he was saddened to hear the tragic news.

"No words can express the sorrow and loss his family and friends are feeling during this extremely difficult time," stated Audla. "On behalf of all Inuit, I would like to offer our deepest sympathies."

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