Lighthouse Keeper Dies Alone at Triple Island B.C.: Coast Guard Under Investigation

A tragic incident has sparked multiple investigations after an on-duty lighthouse keeper died alone at Triple Island Lighthouse, about 40 kilometres west of Prince Rupert, B.C. The Canadian Coast Guard confirmed the keeper was unresponsive during a shift change on April 2, 2025.

Keeper Found Unresponsive During Wellness Check

A remote islet, accessible only by helicopter, houses the lighthouse and typically has two keepers on duty. However, one keeper was alone during a shift change. When the coast guard’s routine calls received no response, they dispatched a helicopter for a wellness check. Tragically, they found the keeper unresponsive and later pronounced him dead.

Safety Protocols Under Scrutiny

The incident raised serious questions about staffing practices. Jim Abram, a retired lighthouse keeper and union representative, expressed concern. He emphasized that stations like Triple Island should always have two people on duty.

“The system requires two keepers on-site for safety,” Abram explained. He pointed out that during the April shift change, they dropped off only one keeper, leaving him alone with supplies.

Official Investigations Launched

The RCMP, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), and the coast guard are now investigating. ESDC will assess whether the coast guard followed the Canada Labour Code, which mandates that federally regulated employers ensure worker safety through adequate staffing, training, and supervision.

Because this happened at a federal workplace, WorkSafeBC has no jurisdiction.

Emotional Impact on the Lighthouse Community

Beyond regulations, the emotional toll on the lighthouse community has been heavy. Abram shared that the remaining keepers are devastated, emphasizing the need for mental health support and stronger safety protocols.

The Canadian Coast Guard extended condolences to the keeper’s family and committed to supporting those affected as investigations proceed.

What Happens Next?

As inquiries continue, there’s a broader conversation about lighthouse operations in Canada. This includes potential changes to staffing models, safety procedures, and how isolated stations are managed.

The hope is that the findings will lead to concrete improvements, preventing such tragedies in the future.

Do you think lighthouse stations should always require a minimum of two on-duty keepers, no matter how remote?

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/on-duty-lighthouse-keeper-death-1.7534077 
• https://www.thenorthernview.com/local-news/death-of-on-duty-lighthouse-keeper-near-prince-rupert-sparks-federal-investigation-8008358