The family of renowned Canadian skyrunner and mountaineer Kalie McCrystal has expressed their heartbreak following her disappearance on the Matterhorn in the Alps over two weeks ago. They released a statement on Tuesday, revealing that all indications suggest she fell while attempting to descend the mountain, emphasizing that she remains "among the mountains where she felt most at home."
Kalie McCrystal was last seen on September 1, 2026, while preparing to break a mountain-running record along the Switzerland-Italy border, specifically on the 4,478-metre-tall Matterhorn. The family has conveyed their gratitude towards the search and rescue teams, thanking them for their extensive efforts in trying to locate her. They also expressed their confidence that all possible measures were taken in the search for their beloved family member.
The family statement, which was shared by Athletics Canada and British Columbia provincial legislator Amelia Boultbee, a friend of McCrystal, highlighted the extraordinary lengths that friends and loved ones across the globe went to in order to assist in the search for Kalie. However, the inability to find her has left the family with a profound sense of loss, as it was not the outcome they had hoped for.
In their heartfelt declaration, McCrystal's mother, Wendy Cooper, and her sister, Jody McCrystal, characterized Kalie as a remarkable individual who navigated life with a blend of determination and joy. They underscored that her absence would create a void not just in their lives but also within the communities of skyrunning, Squamish, and beyond.
The family takes solace in the belief that Kalie was doing what she loved most up until her final moments. They reiterated their sentiment that despite the tragic circumstances, she cherished her time in the mountains where she felt most alive. The pain of not being able to bring her home is immense, but it is accompanied by the recognition of her passion for the mountains.
This latest report reiterates the enduring spirit of McCrystal and the impact she had on those around her, celebrating her life even in the face of such sorrowful news. The family's tribute serves as a reminder of both the risks associated with extreme sports and the unwavering bond between those who engage in such passionate pursuits.




