What happened to the Canadian hockey player found frozen in the Alps? (2011) - The Fifth Estate

Former Canadian hockey player Duncan MacPherson’s body was found frozen on a glacier in Austria, 14 years after he vanished. Authorities maintain his death was an accident. But in 2011, The Fifth Estate and top forensic specialists broke new ground in his case.
Originally aired: Nov. 25, 2011.
#CBCFifthEstate #Hockey #Mystery
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About The Fifth Estate: For four decades The Fifth Estate has been Canada's premier investigative documentary program. Hosts Bob McKeown, Gillian Findlay, Mark Kelley and Steven D'Souza continue a tradition of provocative and fearless journalism. The Fifth Estate brings in-depth investigations that matter to Canadians - delivering a dazzling parade of political leaders, controversial characters and ordinary people whose lives were touched by triumph or tragedy.

[@karengreenberry9010]

The cop was extremely insensitive and arrogant. My condolences to the parents.

[@Judymotto742]

Yeah he was talking bullshit

[@Trund27]

He was DISGUSTING. Incompetent, cowardly, pompous and foul.

[@Thetruthwillprevail231]

I hope he never has to rely on others for answers. How would he feel if the shoes were on different feet.

[@TruthSeeker01]

Shameless cop

[@keesdevreugd9177]

Being rude and insensitive is kind of in the DNA of Austrians. That's a generalization, of course, but mostly true. Cultural thing, I guess.

[@n.l.vannstallings4664]

If you see that a snowboard has not been turned in and a car has stayed overnight in the parking lot the first conclusion is that you have a missing person out there.

[@hilarylaw8415]

God "yes!" Thank you. Been screaming in my head why did no one question that. Many times I've phoned police to report cars I've noticed. Several in parking lots where I park for work that remain unmoved, often dusty, many with flat tire(s),:expired tags, etc. Maybe stolen and dumped or maybe people missing or abducted. Why didn't anyone notice and care enough? So likely the car was there because it's driver encountered some sort of trouble. I'm baffled and appalled by the indifference.

[@lyndamacpherson8366]

@@hilarylaw8415 In 2013, following the book being published in German, the wife of the parking lot attendant contacted me. She said her husband wanted me to know that he was concerned about the abandoned car; and reported it to management. Management told him not to worry about it, because “no one has been reported missing.” This points put the importance of the rental shop NOT reporting Duncan missing when at closing time, the rented snowboarding equipment had not been returned

[@Taydrum]

nozzing to zee here

[@conniemc86]

​@@lyndamacpherson8366 I'm so very sorry for all that you and your husband had to endure. And I'm in admiration of your high regard for, and search for, the truth and in questioning, as opposed to just accepting what was presented to you without using critical thinking. On a side note, what your son had to say about what's often regarded as "the team" in professional sports: the front office, as opposed to the actual team players - that will stay with me. He clearly had a good head on his shoulders and understood what was truly important in life. You raised him well.

[@Bruins-vq5ey]

Nothing unusual about a little red car with belongings in it sitting alone in an empty parking lot for weeks

[@jennypalmer331]

That cop in Austria has absolutely no compassion. The resort owner lied and should have been charged. My condolences to family and friends

[@annabellelee4535]

How did the resort owner lie?

[@2lipToo]

@@annabellelee4535 About the snowboard being returned; it was found with Duncan, hence a lie.

[@annabellelee4535]

@@2lipToo or a mistake. Do you really expect them to dig up the Alps? Think about it.

[@kerryh3918]

@@annabellelee4535they really didn’t even have a proper look….protecting their tourism $$ outweighed discovering the truth

[@annabellelee4535]

@@kerryh3918 You expect them to bulldoze the Alps because a tourist fell into a crevasse? That's ridiculous.

[@okamicookie]

42 days? The car sat in the lot for 42 days and no one reported anything? No assistance from the Canadian and Austrian authorities. My condolences to Duncan’s family. How utterly devastating. May he rest in peace ❤

[@hayleybarbara1589]

I live in Saskatoon and our police are an absolute embarrassment. It's reaching crisis levels of incompetence despite them getting a literal mountain of funding

[@JeanGillespie-fp7rs]

Horrific tragedy!😢😢😢😢😢

[@JeanGillespie-fp7rs]

No excuses!!!😢😢😢

[@poodtang2104]

Over here in 2023 if your vehicle is in a parking lot more than two days it gets towed.

[@aazhie]

This seems to be a really common theme in many missing people lost in park or outdoor amusement areas :(

[@auntiegc7880]

Why was that policeman in the job if he had no interest in investigating? The sheer indifference is staggering. What a disgrace.

[@poodtang2104]

It's called doing the least amount of work you can possibly get away with.

[@Meowmeter]

Investigating is admitting there is a problem… bad publicity for their tourism business

[@poodtang2104]

Totally.@@Meowmeter

[@frederickcombs8661]

The thing is, DO NOT GO ALONE on hikes, ski trips or other activities in the huge of nature ALONE. He was such a handsome, skilled athlete, a young man with everything going for him.

[@theresachung703]

You are 100 right. Always go with someone

[@user-ig6lx9vk7x]

​@@theresachung703actually don't go hiking at all especially in the snow or anytime especially if it's a snow storm

[@user-ig6lx9vk7x]

STOP FACTS That Part

[@guts_punch_balls_throw-up]

Indeed, it's not nearly so tragic if the person is ugly, introverted, or just basically boring.

[@supergirl0526]

I was at whistler one season, when a Swiss snowboarder didn't come back to the hotel at the end of the day. My hotel immediately notified the rcmp, the resort etc, and a 3 day search began. All over the mountain, screens warned you to look out for her. Finally she was found, alive, as she had wandered into back country and hiked away from the village. Tourism is not an excuse for doing the wrong thing.

[@gollyg1448]

Anyone else who ventures away from marked areas should be charged for the search expenses.!!

[@MonaLisa-lu8zi]

Perhaps the relevant words were Swiss snowboarder.

[@penelopejewell-ferrer13]

​@@gollyg1448Many searchers are volunteers.

[@brycefraz]

It’s kind of the whole point of a vacation. Also it’s human nature to wanna go where we aren’t supposed to.

[@mirandaandrews2872]

Im so happy she was found alive

[@erents1]

I lived in Tahoe for 40+ years, I owned a rental shop, I skied constantly, I worked at ski areas and I operated heavy equipment doing snow removal. I believe that a groomer ran over him and to hide what he had done, pushed him into a crevasse and buried him. I can’t count how many times I nearly backed up over a child sledding, a skier, or a “hot dog” on a ATV or snowmobile while I was operating a huge loader. During my time in Tahoe I also owned a rental shop and we would have known if the board wasn’t returned within three days, as there are two completely different files, one for boards out and another for boards that have been returned. The car in parking lot, typically a huge red flag. The ski area should have been sued by the family RIP.

[@grettagirl2884]

I wonder what that smug Austrian police officer would have to say if it were HIS son was who went missing and no one did anything to really investigate 😮.

[@ritayammouni2803]

Or the pathologist 😡

[@ghanaboyz]

Hindsight is perfect sight... Who did the offical first report to the police, in what district and when? One single person, a person not really telling anyone where exactly he is and when, with no company and no messages, would that be easy to quickly look into if the report made was not clear to begin with? I find many argument in this episode flawed, like "some one MUST have known". No, there is no reason what so ever that someone "must" have known.

[@dellahicks7231]

I had the honor of having Physio Therapy at the same time as Duncan in Saskatoon back in 1984. He had a shoulder injury I believe it was, while he played for the WHL Blades. I was recovering from a major surgery myself, I would spend hours during the day in Physio, Duncan was part of that for months on end. We laughed, we joked, we shared stories, he was kind, caring and it made my time working through pain to overcome, just that much easier. My heart sank when I heard that Duncan had gone "Missing" on those slopes. What happened during his recovery on that mountain should never have happened. Some people we meet for a reason, some for a season, Duncan was definitely for a reason! Thank You for your kindness, Be At Peace now Duncan. 🕊

[@aberamagold7509]

That's a nice story

[@pattieg2815]

Thank you for sharing that beautiful story. My heart breaks for a young life lost and for his loving parents.

[@RawOlympia]

What a fabulous reminiscence of a beautiful young man who left this earth way too soon.

[@Schiffon]

Very kind ❤

[@ginnystout6908]

It’s no small thing to reach out. ❤❤ What a beautiful thing when two people connect and share the road! Thanks!

[@elaineteut9579]

This is so sad. Shame on the authorities for not helping those poor parents.

[@stfuplsok]

welcome to Austria.

[@CSDonohue11]

I know. It’s disgusting

[@gailhorochuk1269]

something to hide ?

[@joannewilson1483]

I am so sad for the famly

[@slane8]

@@gailhorochuk1269just hiding a disappearance to save their tourist season

[@CC-kl4nh]

I can’t imagine losing a child and not knowing for 14 years! That is torture and a living nightmare.

[@galeocean4182]

It turns out that the parents were right - the police were not capable of solving this case. Shameful how the authorities acted

[@jamesr1703]

I've been skiing in Austria and as soon as it was mentioned that that day was foggy and the grooming machines were out and about, I knew exactly what happened and so did the police, the examiner and everyone working at the resort.

[@MeltedPearls]

Thanks for that perspective. Doesn't it seem crazy not to identify the groomer drivers on the day of and day after the accident?

[@MY-zx6lz]

@@MeltedPearls why? so you can go at him - we do not know the real story - if that was the case - maybe the snowboarder was unconscious and covered in snow and never seen.... it's all smokes and mirror at this time! ALL ASSUMPTIONS AND FANTASIES!

[@cattymajiv]

@@MY-zx6lz No not at all. The cops should have grilled every cat operator at the time and examined all the runs, because obviously he went skiing and never came back. That's no fantasy. There is no excuse for the slipshod investigation. The odds would have been an 85 to 90% chance of finding his body within a day, or a few days at most. And, regarding your words, did you not listen? He was PUT IN THE CREVASSE BY A PERSON.

[@cattymajiv]

@@MeltedPearls I absolutely agree. The snowcat drivers should have been grilled the next day, and the hill closed while every inch was examined, because obviously he went up there and never came back down. No excuse for this!

[@MeltedPearls]

@@MY-zx6lz So much angst. Are you a lawyer for the resort or...?

[@donsarde]

Do not understand why the authorities left his car for six weeks without even bothering to verify to whom it belonged. With all of his documentation in it too ??😮

[@wvrjl]

Sounds intentional to me.

[@nadine_ghc3465]

Also the car's owner suspected something was wrong. He couldn't locate his car either? Weird.

[@weston.weston]

The Fifth Estate provides some of the best quality programming, I am glad I discovered them (I live in the states).

[@clpr2023]

Same!

[@simonfea2]

Yes! Top notch.

[@aberamagold7509]

It's pretty much the only good Canadian TV show.

[@Judymotto742]

Same ❤

[@rabbitsonjupiter6824]

I agree (from England!) I think this programme is so well done. Very interesting topics, really well put-together, and pertinent questions asked. Thank you Canada! 😎

[@shannonmaire]

I lived and worked on Vail Mountain in Colorado for 5 years. Locals and tourists die quite often due to the extreme nature of the terrain and mountain lifestyle. Unfortunately, the townspeople do become jaded in light of transient folks and tragic accidents that befall the community. It's very easy to become injured and left stranded if no one knows you in the community. But the complete lack of procedure to find a missing person and hide a fatality on the mountain is unfathomable. Please always try to ski or ride with a friend that will ring the alarm for you god forbid you end up injured on mountain. Always let your family and friends know where you are. Remember even though you are at a ski resort, the mountains are riddled with all kinds of ways you can hurt yourself.

[@jeffstewart4162]

I knew his brother back in high school and I remember how heavy the family carried that burden of not knowing. As a parent now I would spend any amount of money, pay any price and leave no stone unturned… just like these people.

[@davidkgreen]

You went to Bowman?Would Derek be your cousin?

[@stfuplsok]

What if you don't have enough money?

[@jeffstewart4162]

@@stfuplsok in this case it didn’t matter anyway.

[@elizabethannegrey6285]

This case gave me literal chills. The indifference demonstrated by the police, and others who should have investigated is horrifying. May his parents find peace, and somehow reconcile to their loss.

[@dhilgersom]

I felt the same thing. It may sound insane. But it was a coverup, to protect what? The elite freaks.

[@SigmaEmpataLevante]

As she said: I too need to feel that I still have faith in HUMANITY. Things Ive been throught made me more than skeptical.

[@ghanaboyz]

Well, you actually do not think this show sherry picks to create best possible selling value? The show kind of edit and stack claims then throw in that officer with some heavy narrative added to create maximal feelings in the audience. A large part of what is showed here seems to be stacking of claims and assumptions, making the most of a horrific tradegy.

[@modogo3635]

A sad ending of this young man's life. Please, never go skiing alone in the mist. Never go swimming alone in the sea. Never walk in a gorge alone. Make sure you are familiar with the risks of nature in places that are new to you. Accidents can happen, so better be prepared.

[@nr1785]

Never go bushwalking alone.

[@poodtang2104]

100% Agreed never do any of the above alone.

[@noth606]

Well, I think that if you're aware of certain risks it's on you if you take them, but that's not what this was. This was something else, he wasn't in some far part of wilderness out on an adventure. He was at a ski resort in a place that makes most of it's income from tourists that come to ski there. This was 'perception management' gone wrong, the accident itself wasn't the messed up part, what was done to hinder the truth from coming out was.

[@poodtang2104]

Agreed.@@noth606

[@helengormlie966]

​@noth606 well said. What happened to Duncan was criminal and the lack of concern from the resort or police was disgusting..

[@jennifermorris833]

‘Nothing bad happens in Austria’ - yeah right that horrible Fritz who kept his daughter prisoner for 18 yrs in his basement and impregnated her with 5 kids, lived in Austria …….but nothing bad happens in Austria.

[@jdmjcomito]

Nothing bad happens in Austria? Ya'll birthed Hitler

[@yvonnecortes_]

Ah yes ive seen several documentaries on that case. That man is the devil himself (shivers)

[@sw6118]

And guess where Hitler was born…

[@netizen_a]

Hitler was born in Austria, just saying.

[@lc86_65]

Austrians started the 2 World Wars really... just saying 😏

[@08Stella]

Jaw-dropping that a writer and a snowboard expert had to crack the case. Everyone else who knew something was either lying or stayed silent. Infuriating.14 years of mystery and misery for the parents. Despicable. Disgrace to Humanity! Rest in peace, Duncan and condolences to the family, xx..

[@stfuplsok]

*Humanity *condolences

[@gailhorochuk1269]

All about $ ,Austrians have filthy people too

[@susannecromwell3461]

That's so unreal. That beautiful young man. Such loving parents.

[@michelleadams474]

It's both sad and disgusting what little regard some people have for human life when it comes to protecting reputation or whatever the situation may be. This young man was worth something, he was valid and loved.... shame on them!

[@MeltedPearls]

Exactly.

[@rulistening7777]

All over a simple, reasonable ACCIDENT.

[@stellaercolani3810]

A child of God😢❤

[@whatdidulearn]

No one asked the question, “who was operating the machinery that day?” Once you had that info you could start questioning every employee. The fifth estate needs to dig deeper

[@readdeeply9278]

He had little regard for his own life. And everyone else has tp pay the price.

[@Hypnobunny1]

My heart goes out to this young man’s parents I can’t imagine what these good people went through and still go through. RIP Duncan 🙏🙏😢

[@flufwix]

The resort and the Austrian police were an utter disgrace!There’s no excuse for them not taking the disappearance seriously from day 1! There’s no excuse for the resort lying through their teeth about the snowboard. Why didn’t the police ask to see the allegedly returned snowboard? Why did the forensic examiner not do his job? Why weren’t the clothes removed and an autopsy performed as should be routine for a mysterious death? So much dishonesty and awful inhumane treatment of Duncan and his family. All those involved in covering up what happened are truly disgusting! I’ll certainly never visit the Stubaier valley! The Canadian government should be demanding honesty and answers immediately.

[@beverlymccarthy5981]

How can a body be so intact as seen in x-rays, but yet the pathologist continues to say that glacier movement accounts for the condition of the corpse? If that were the case wouldn't there be consistent damage not just to the arm, leg and snow board? The Austrian government is more concerned with losing visitor dollars than with providing closure to the grieving family. Disgusting!

[@addicted367]

I hope the parents sued them!

[@maryburger1232]

​@@addicted367sued them for what ?

[@user-lo7eo3nt6t]

The valley sounds like my kind of place! Very exciting because it's dangerous! I am saving my money to go there as soon as possible!!!

[@sallybeatty4150]

Medical examiner sticking to his story???? He never examined the BODY!!!!!!!

[@kevinscheifele6833]

I am Canadian and about the same age as this poor man. I just heard about this now? Crazy and RIP Duncan. Condolences to the family.

[@milmomterry]

I’m so upset over this happening to their child. Unbelievable how irresponsible the people were over him missing! Then the parents risk all to go by themselves to track him down? Bless, I would of come to help from the US if I would of known (I felt so helpless, for the parents!) 14 years is a long time to grieve and wonder… bless their precious hearts. My heart breaks for this family and their beautiful son. Prayers for you all…

[@tinabrenner3562]

Why must strangers risk their life? These people also have family children and old parents

[@lilliebrown6320]

​@@tinabrenner3562It's what Humanity should do for Humanity! Really? Are you that cold?

[@January.]

​@@lilliebrown6320Appalling

[@January.]

*would have x 2

[@wvrjl]

​​​@@tinabrenner3562- Are you heartless??? You go searching for him because that is what good, caring human beings do!!!!! You go in large groups so that the risk is MUCH lower (very low risk, actually). Let's hope if you, or your child, go missing, that no one bothers looking because it's not worth the risk!

[@hilltopvt]

I'm so sorry the MacPherson family experienced such a terrible tragedy. I'm appalled at the behavior of the 'officials' involved - every one of them let down Duncan and his family. Shocking and horrible for the family who had to spend their life savings to find out what happened to their son. Nothing but excuses and inhumane behavior.

[@MommaLuvBun]

Im dropping a comment to say thank you, Fifth Estate for showcasing this very tragic story i can't even imagine what the MacPherson's endured for so many years, before finally getting answers that ahould have been provided, instead if swept under the rug like it was nothing, on the ither side if tue wirld at that. Im upset at our RCMP for their utter lack of care, concern and compassion for one of ours in a different country. Rest easy to you, Duncan MacPherson and tobyou as well Mr & Mrs MacPherson 💗

[@texasoutlook60]

The buddy system is so important when traveling to a strange place or doing something like skiing or hiking! If he would have had someone with him this scenario may have been avoided!

[@ghanaboyz]

A voice of reason. Have someone with him or just told somone where he would be and when he expected to be back from the slope.

[@gollyg1448]

The Canadian government needs to step in for these people and get some justice for this family!!

[@MusicLovingFool1]

The government doesn't care for peons... only the VIPs.

[@mastluob2554]

Canadian government and leaders are inept

[@rickipacaci1338]

I would sue and sue the facility until I got satisfaction. It’s infuriating 😡😡😡😡😢. It’s inexcusable what these parents have had to go through. My heart goes out to them. 🙏🏻❤️💔

[@jeltsjevanderwal5455]

Wanneer klagen jullie niet iets aan, jullie leven hangt aan elkaar van iemand aanklagen. Stop daarmee en begin eens echt te leven. 🤮

[@rickipacaci1338]

@@jeltsjevanderwal5455 Don’t understand a word you wrote 😳

[@jeltsjevanderwal5455]

dan ga je maar naar google om het te vertalen, moet ik ook doen of is het jullie luiheid om dat niet te gaan doen. @@rickipacaci1338

[@vickinoeske1154]

With the internet what it is today, I would be on EVERY travel website telling this story and warning all tourists.

[@buckfideniimd8546]

Yes of course sue someone else for your own ignorance. Makes total sense.

[@designx8693]

How that police man could sit there and dismiss Duncan's parents is beyond me.

[@ingevonschneider5100]

There is no proof for a crime.

[@ravennamedzebra]

Especially when their own investigative work is not what found him, but the random melting of the glacier 14 years later.

[@ghanaboyz]

Where exactly in this show did a police man dimiss Duncan's parents?? Was it shown anything with first hand information or them sitting together in the same rome at the same time? The show pretty much steal the honor of a number of people without them getting a chance to oppese claims. The interviews were not much of an ubiased dialogue but heavily sherry picked and directed by the show.

[@carolmorgan6734]

If I could say to the parents, as someone who lost my only child, my son, my best friend when he was 28. Duncan is at peace, I wish you could be too. I understand the relentless, endless searching. You did it, made it happen, you found him. Well done Bob and Melinda. I am so proud of you. The determination, with no help, quite the opposite. Try to get some rest, he is waiting for you, right around the corner.

[@oxyfee6486]

We lost our son to illness, he was very young, I empathize with you, I hope you find peace, I know how hard it is, I go on for my wife and daughter, be blessed!

[@andreavanda5402]

Yes, there comes a time when we need to accept what can't be changed for your own peace and sanity. It is the last step in the 5 stages of the grieving cycle.

[@katarzynamariamuszynska2811]

Do you mind tell how your Son passed away?

[@user-ru3ql6ji4p]

Tourist destinations are notorious for hushing things. Bad press is bad for business. Avoid tourist destinations, strange things happen there and are hushed up.

[@laurelgirard8475]

How could a pathologist possibly determine the injuries if he didn’t undress the victim. The X-rays would indicate more info that must be imperative to the explanation for his death.

[@samanthaeduardamoreira1630]

I wonder if the Austrian police would have been so dismissive had the dead individual been Austrian and not a foreigner. As an immigrant, I can say that you are never deemed as important or relevant as the nationals. So local authorities say: Austria is safe, period, end of story for them and the Canadians were manipulated and pushed around for years. It is sad, disrespectful and inhumane.

[@ingefriedbianca]

Austrian law is based on the Roman legal tradition and does not provide the same standards of civil responsibility and fiduciary duty obligations as English and Protestant jurisdictions. Common Law fiduciary duties and civil liability standards are based on the Principle of Fraternity which constitutes a very elevated standard of interpersonal respect. Member-countries of the EU must eventually harmonize their respective legal systems: hopefully Roman Law systems will highlight and enforce the Principle of Fraternity that is normally embodied in democracies based on the French Republic model.

[@renetpretorius541]

All for the sake of money money money and image. Sad so sad 😢

[@lisadolan689]

Correct. My ski ⛷️ cash can go else where 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@lisadolan689]

@@ingefriedbiancathat was a beautiful answer. Succinct and correct. 🙌

[@denniswijmer4988]

??????

[@gittenielsen95]

"Such accidents were routinely hussed up by the authorities" That's just incomprehensible. The reputation of the resort is obviously more important than human lives 😢

[@annabellelee4535]

How would advertising this stop people from dying in the Alps? It's an extreme environment and as such is very dangerous.

[@imalrockme]

@@annabellelee4535 If it doesn't stop them, then why hide the truth, what good does it do?

[@annabellelee4535]

@@seattlerain4809 Oh please, spare me your clown act. Nobody is lying in Austria. He fell into a crevasse and died. Get over it.

[@sophocles1198]

@@annabellelee4535 You show the same lack of humility as the Austrian police office who presumed to have all answers.

[@eh-i1841]

@@annabellelee4535how dare you react like that.Your bad manners are outrageous.

[@johndorenski4127]

What a terrible miscarriage of justice..... all for the sake of money because obviously the slopes would have closed......my heart goes out to the parents...so sorry for them 😔

[@user-ci7vu7eo9w]

Money?U don't know nothing

[@kevinbillings1924]

If you had been driving that machine for any length of time you would become use to the sound of the rotating mechanism as it grinds/mulches the ice/snow. So, obviously you would know when you've hit some thing other than that. It would be the same difference as cutting the grass in summer ; you know you've hit some thing, the sound changes.

[@MeltedPearls]

Such an important point.

[@kellismith4329]

When I mow the lawn, it sounds like whatever music is playing in my airpods

[@dulcieparker7425]

unless ur drunk

[@minastirith997]

@@kellismith4329it was 1989 no airpods

[@ZekromReshiramVolt]

​@@kellismith4329 your particular brain also seems slower than normal

[@lornesabo7306]

I can't imagine the pain and suffering the family has been through all these years. Its an awful tragedy that definitely seems like a coverup. I hope the family can find peace and the truth.Thank you 5th estate for your ongoing support and bringing this case to light. I hope one year the person responsible will come forward and restore his mother's faith in humanity! For the MacPherson family I feel for your loss and hope one day soon your faith in humanity will be restored and the truth comes out

[@LazyDaisyDay88]

I'm not surprised. It's exactly the same here in Switzerland. Nothing must damage the tourism industry. My only advice is - don't ski alone if you don't know the area.

[@mikelastmanstanding6078]

Or…….don’t ski alone period!

[@Riley0509]

Just horrific and those cops just do not care. Sickening.

[@minastirith997]

probably not getting paid enough to deal with international issues

[@goodmorningsundaymorning4533]

​@@minastirith997Forget the pay, geesh! Where was their humanity?

[@sim5247]

Do u have any idea how many Ski Tourists are there also doing crazy things on the glacier? U think the austrian police there has plenty of policemen left only for International affairs

[@BazookaTooth707]

Ive watched a couple of videos regarding this case, but this was by far the most thorough and put together presentation of the case I've seen. I know a whole lot more about the nuances and finer details than I did before. I would've never found your content if it wasnt for an obscure JRE episode where he gave you guys props. Anyways, thanks Fifth Estate.

[@laikanbarth]

I heard the story from Mr Ballen. Yes, this certainly had more information in it.

[@michelleadams474]

@@laikanbarth I agree but I don't like that guys channel, for some reason he rubs me wrong and seems to be fuller of himself than he actually is.

[@bunnyluver2176]

​@@michelleadams474his channel is def not what it used to be. His podcast is horrible. His mom writes the script for that I guess and for a channel that is beloved for his story telling abilities, him reading the clunky, wordy script is so unnatural. It's just really, really bad.

[@aberamagold7509]

The Fifth Estate story's are always really well done.

[@wintercame]

@@michelleadams474 He creeps me.

[@anglofrancaiseyvonne9349]

It must be so difficult to be happy to have the body of your dead child😢, RIP Duncan, I pray you didnt suffer

[@jikook7457]

What a horrendous chain of events. I'm praying that Duncan was unconscious when the machine got to him.

[@dulcieparker7425]

Somebody DID lie, but hey... prob the police, frankly. For that officer to say " accident" is horrendously SHODDY work. LAZINESS. The "accident" was him being in charge. THAT'S the accident.

[@LizaB486]

A very sad story. Tragedies like this could be avoided if anyone really cared. For example, grooming machines are not deployed when its foggy with low visibility, just in case someone is lying on the ground. No one is allowed to go skiing or boarding alone or without a guide. There should be very strict rules at these resorts so nobody DIES.

[@kathleenhebert2278]

Right! And not being allowed to board/ski in fog! Poor guy. Bless him , his family and their souls!

[@karenhouser4123]

My heart aches for Ducan and his parents. Such loving parents . This story makes me so angry. The skiing resort's reputation meant more than a cherished human life. Unbelievable! God bless the parents and give then much needed peace. Rest in peace Ducan. Your parents loved you so dearly😭❤

[@brookeduncan-ray5665]

Maybe I’m going out on a limb here, but it occurred to me that most, if not all “resorts” have precautionary measures to safeguard against accidents. For example: Lifeguards at resort swimming pools/beaches, car attendants to safeguard your vehicles, security guards and cameras around resort hotels and restaurants. But zero safety for skiing? Personally, I went snowboarding once in Loveland, Co (first time ever doing any skiing on snow). My brothers lived there and were advanced enough to run the highest part. One brother showed me 5 minutes of how to stop and turn on the “bunny slope.” I was so intimidated and actually landed in a snow ditch in the tree line head first. Panic tried to control me, but I stopped and figured out how to get out of this situation and I did. Nobody saw me and I walked the rest of the way down. I’m just very infuriated by this story and I think ski resorts need to take their multi-million dollar business to a higher level for everyone who is on their property. If one life can be saved, isn’t Duncan worth saving?

[@nickiewilson9134]

Mt. PURDEN,OPPS.

[@joywebster2678]

Most ski hills have their ski pros, staff do the final run down the hill side to side checking for any skiers stuck on the hill, clearing the hill before the groomers hit the hill.

[@schoolingdiana9086]

Not in the 80s.

[@maricelavancena9469]

What a sad and tragic end to a young promising life. And it is even more devastating that the grieving parents had to search for years and years for a missing son, that could have been avoided if the person responsible had just came out clean

[@joywebster2678]

No not all Canadian parents would go this far to seek out a missing adult child. Mine would accept whatever police told them, and consider me deceased. These parents loved their son and dug in!

[@2lipToo]

Mine wouldn't bother even investigating with the police.

[@scottharman3331]

this is a shalllow comment

[@kimclarke5018]

@@scottharman3331actually no. People just assume that the police are telling the truth.

[@katarzynamariamuszynska2811]

How you know ?

[@davidelliott9661]

When I did work for Crystal Mountain Resort all kinds of dark things happened their people didn't know about and the employees who worked at the resort could be very dark. I heard of these employees who were joy riding in these dangerous switch back hills that went off a cliff and were all found dead the next morning. And I can recall these giant snowplows going through these giant snow fields during the night. It wasn't a friendly place to work as projected. The people who worked there were often taking risks to joy ride.

[@lisadolan689]

There’s much more going on with this story

[@karyannfontaine8757]

That behavior would explain Duncan's mangled body.

[@speaklifegardenhomesteadpe8783]

If you are the driver, please come forward. 🙏🏻😔🌿🕊️🌿

[@briankoski817]

That particular glacier can't melt quick enough. RIP Duncan. That's horrible what happened to you.

[@andicastro1203]

Why is the inspector smiling with his eyes?

[@CEK51]

Thank you so much for investigating Duncan’s disappearance. What a kind and humanly thing to do. My heart goes out to the parents. You are so strong! I don’t know that I could have come through it as well. I’m so glad you never gave up….. pure love for that son!!❤❤

[@PalmBeachFlorida24]

The Austrian Pathologist lied. Shameful.

[@katarzynamariamuszynska2811]

Strange that Austrian pathologist said he didn't even undress the body ? ,so how he could examine the body ? Mum said She uncover the body and seen something but She trusted in pathologist, and parents cremated the body ,so there is no photos or any DNA

[@glennwojcik2342]

Such a horrible death and loss of family. Someone knows the truth in Austria. Beautiful country, but with a dark history.

[@dominicakenu4450]

Yes, What's His Name Birthplace His campaign could not be rooted in Austria --- he took it to Germany.

[@Paul-mq5yn]

not sure we can pin this one on the H-man

[@lisadolan689]

Correct. 😐 very dark

[@Optimismus53]

@@lisadolan689 most countrys have a dark past! by the way, canada too! i hope, his death ist resolved!

[@jamesr1703]

A entire country conspired to commit genocide.

[@Laura-zy5jp]

What an goodlooking guy. Such a terrible awful tragedy for him and his family . I am heartbroken to hear this on the Fifth Estate . I am a prairie girl my whole life and hockey is a big part of me and my home town where I grew up and still live . My heart goes out to his family and who loved Duncan✝️💔🕊🕊😔😢

[@Lizzie-ve7kt]

I hope this story now does have a terribly negative impact on tourism there to teach this corrupt, negligent and lying community a lesson. That smug policeman was the worst of the worst and his arrogance when telling blatant and easily disprovable lies is sickening.

[@happytrails699]

I don't think the person that covered this up will ever talk and to be honest, I don't think he is losing sleep anymore... sadly

[@carlawestlund4429]

More like he was run over by grooming machine yeees

[@doreenblatz2440]

@@carlawestlund4429the person commenting is talking about the person driving the snow groomer.

[@carlawestlund4429]

@@doreenblatz2440 thanks 👍 for correcting me ..the my hamster fell asleep in his wheel ,🤣👌

[@smileyone1612]

​@@carlawestlund4429 🤦‍♀️

[@jenniferlonnes7420]

With all the investigative power involved in this, could no one track down and interrogate the snow chopper operator? That seems to be the logical next step.

[@ericeandco]

Excellent investigative reporting! We do not see that anymore.

[@karasays01]

This is heartbreaking the parents are unbelievably brave and I applaud them not giving up on duncan I hope one day all those involved will admit fault and be charged but like Mrs. Macpherson said I too need. restoration of faith in humanity. those responsible will face consequences but likely not in this life.

[@smileyone1612]

Should have raised questions & more about that hand that didn't look right.

[@annabellelee4535]

Meh, he fell into a crevasse and the case is closed. Accept reality.

[@marymac7262]

Austria just got a 1 star rating as a travel destination. Even Mexico investigates missing tourists.

[@somelikeithot444]

Such a sad story.GODBLESS the family to be put through such a tragedy. 😢From one Canadian to another.

[@FLo-jc7ig]

SAME 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@LMB222]

There's no god.

[@truthhurts2879]

​@@LMB222And you don't exist either. See how easy it is to copy your religious hate speech? Touché 👹👺☠️💩

[@cattymajiv]

@@LMB222 I just wish everyone could see that! It drives me nuts having to endure this kind of religious garbage shoved down my throat all the time. Nevermind the fact that my taxes fund their luxury buildings and lifestyles!

[@Carolina-uf2ip]

@@cattymajiv..I used to question it. Then my husband died and we got an unmistakable sign that there is something beyond. He said he’d send one if he possibly could and he absolutely did

[@ArtByHazel]

Rest in peace young man. 😢

[@truthhurts2879]

The amount of oxygen rich bright red blood in sharp contrast to that of the pure white snow would be unmissable.... Yet no one reported it. 🤔🤔🤔🤔

[@schoolingdiana9086]

Excellent point. You must have at least one nurse in your family.

[@jeanetteshawredden5643]

Blood would turn brown. Also a nurse.

[@wenchegulbrandsen3120]

You must never ever go skiing or snowboarding alone. If you fall down a cravasse you may lose your life..

[@makiroateao5370]

I would encourage Duncan's parents, the fifth estate, the guy who's helping with the investigation to keep fighting for the truth to bring the Austrian Authorities accountable to what really happened on the slope in Austria and it will bring peace to others who had gone thru the same fate, no one dare cares about it RIP DUNCAN ❤ GOD BLESS TO THOSE WHO HAD GONE THRU THIS TRAGEDY... ITS SO SAD 😔 😟 🙁 😥

[@kathyvangogh4034]

We should be shocked…but the grim reality is…we’re not. My heart goes out to those beautiful parents. And a huge “atta Boy” to the investigative journalists and writer. I hope the MacPhersons can find some peace by letting go of expectations of human decency on a global scale, it can only be found individually. It’s a tough pill to swallow.

[@deniseandrews113]

👏🏻👏🏼👏🏽👏🏾 Very well said!

[@jesterday2222]

I feel for his parents, so much. And for him of course. I hope he didn't suffer.What a sad story :(

[@pardonmybumbershoot5085]

It's heart-rending to think what the parents have been through. I wonder what his sibling's life has been like.

[@karenaaron2844]

i've skied my whole life, this story needs to be told so that we skiier's knew not to go there. so very sad and tragic

[@KarinaTheDreama]

1989 was the year I graduated high school. My deepest condolences what an incredible loss. He is so handsome. Why was he alone? It just hurts me that he was taken like that like a golden gladiator warrior set up in a snare. So sorry. ❤

[@laikanbarth]

The year I graduated too. This is such a terrible thing that happened to that young man. He had his whole life before him. Rip Duncan

[@cattymajiv]

Many 1000s of people ski alone all the time.

[@jamesliddell9095]

My wife and I watched this incredibly terrible and tragic story, and we can't believe what we just witnessed. First off, we wonder.. where was the Canadian Govt during all this, and, a question we were hoping would be answered during this video... why did Duncan's parents come home with his ashes ? and not his body ? The Austrian government released all his equipment including the snowboard to his parents to bring back, but why not the body ? In case we misses it, my wife and I don't believe that this was addressed during the show

[@ANYHOO0]

​@@VeeSee74what a weird thing to say.

[@AskAlex1999]

I hope you find the answers you’re looking for!

[@AskAlex1999]

@@VeeSee74Wow, what an AH.

[@maximillion8442]

That's a good question! You'd think after all the misinformation they'd already gotten that they'd want to repatriate their son's body intact so as to enable the acquisition of a second opinion

[@biaberg3448]

It’s very expensive to transport a body.

[@bvalen16]

The whole town lives on tourism...Imagine the "tragedy" i.e. the loss of earnings if the ski resort closes for a few days due to the search for " just one" skier?? Everyone is disgusting, starting from the snowboard rental company to the police. Rip Duncan.

[@jenmdawg]

I can’t imagine living a life in which loss of money is more important than loss of life. I hope one day kids marvel at the depravity of our global money culture and are in disbelief we CREATED a world so devoid of value.

[@DriIceman]

Has there been any further update since this was filmed in 2011? Loved seeing the developments from the 2006 Fifth Estate story! Hope this family was able to find peace ❤

[@BigAlWillis]

Into the death zone was another interesting program.

[@cattymajiv]

I see nothing at all. No picture. Wtf?!

[@shimmer8289]

I searched Google for updates the parents in 2011 looked about 60 yo so today that would place them in their 70s. And no not another article on the case since the author delved into it. I hope the parents have found some peace, as difficult as it might be.

[@shadelings]

@@cattymajiv Duncan's Wikipedia page has the theory that a snowcat ran over him on a foggy day, killing him while he was waiting for rescue and then the driver and/or his supervisor buried Duncan in a shallow grave that was revealed when the glacier melted.

[@rickipacaci1338]

The Austrians that handled everything were in competent and very harsh people. Shame on them. It’s appalling 😡

[@DaniHMcV]

Austrians, not Australians

[@TonyBraun]

.....useless Aussies

[@rickipacaci1338]

@@DaniHMcV yes thanks for the correction. Misspelled

[@Crazyced]

Looks to me like there were extremely proficient at accomplishing their goal.

[@mortalclown3812]

What a heartbreaking story. Fate wields the strangest twists: I'm so sorry for his family. Rest in peace, Duncan 💙🙏💙

[@easygoer1234]

Gosh this was an interesting story. I watch a LOT of true crime etc and this program literally kept me glued to my phone.

[@GrippiAlex]

Mr Ballen recently covered this story on KZbin, well worth a watch. He just goes under the name Mr Ballen, he covers true crimes, mysteries etc.

[@ccasey1904]

Without a lawsuit, there will be no consequences. Sending prayers.🙏🙏🙏

[@CommonSenseRevolution]

1 - It is very sad to see this coverup of what really happened on the Austrian side of this investigation. I feel for the parents having to endure this. 2 - Linden McIntyre is my favourite investigative journalist and it is good to see him still active. May he never stop uncovering the truth!

[@Dan-nt2yb]

It appears that useless police work is an international thing. Unreal. Tragic.

[@reneelabute5649]

It's absolutely shameful how uncaring and obtuse the response was from the authorities over there.

[@carolinechew2432]

Why isn’t it as simple as finding out who was operating the machinery that day?!?

[@vincelemaire]

I grew up (and still live) in the alps (Switzerland) and I’m not surprised. Even nowadays I’m pretty sure that if someone was struck by a snow groomer in the valley (and subsequently died) no one would ear about it.

[@stfuplsok]

*HEAR

[@HerMajesty1]

It would be so easy to look up who was working on that machine that day.

[@attentiondeficit9765]

Would it though..? You believe the ski resort has records of employees from 20 + years ago..?

[@anitavandenbossche2188]

The politieman in Austria is smiling, unbelievable!

[@kevinlewis9369]

More infuriating than sad. The indifference of the police officer while assuming Duncan was completely at fault when there were so many lies and so much obvious negligence. Awesome parents to follow through when no one else did.

[@julzstock]

I’d be inquiring about the person who was in charge of that machine … knocking on their door & introducing myself ..

[@susanbuckley4153]

Such a sad story.. the parents had to do their own investigation:((( The authorities are horrible for just not caring !!!!

[@gillianwhitfield9746]

Is it so hard to find out who the driver of that machine was in 1989? Surely not...

[@whiteacacia]

i don't think he is around...

[@MrTrogjrog]

so the snowboard was not returned so that was a thorough investigation!

[@kathrynbishop8784]

I'm curious if there has been any accountability or apologies made since the original airing of this heartbreaking story in 2011.

[@tinak.356]

So, the person who ran over him, did not see him/ Or what? The machine is colorful, I hope he didn't feel anything!!! Poor guy!

[@ericeandco]

The guy was a professional hockey player. How wasn’t his disappearance constantly on the news? Why isn’t it today?

[@stasia448]

Right

[@alyciamarie4163]

No internet and the news was not 24/7 yet