VW Beetle Dangles from Stawamus Chief Cliff: B.C. Parks Considers Legal Action
The B.C. Environment and Parks Ministry is weighing legal options against unidentified pranksters who suspended the shell of an old Volkswagen Beetle near the summit of the iconic Stawamus Chief in Squamish. This bizarre incident has prompted the immediate closure of the surrounding area due to significant public safety concerns.
Immediate Safety Threats and Area Closure
The bright red-and-white vehicle shell was discovered last week hanging precariously above Highway 99 and power lines, creating what officials describe as a serious public safety threat. A ministry spokesperson emphasized the danger, stating, "If the car is not secured properly, it could fall and cause serious harm to visitors. Its removal may also pose a risk to those conducting the work to remove it."
B.C. Parks has cordoned off the affected zone, urging hikers and tourists to avoid the area entirely until the situation is resolved. The ministry confirmed that park rangers and the RCMP have been notified and are actively investigating the incident.
Complex Removal Operation Underway
Park authorities are currently developing a detailed plan to safely extract the Volkswagen Beetle from its precarious position. While the exact cost remains undetermined, officials anticipate completing the removal operation this week. The process involves:
- Coordinating with multiple agencies including the RCMP
- Completing procurement procedures for specialized equipment
- Ensuring minimal risk to workers conducting the removal
- Consulting with the local Squamish First Nation community
The ministry spokesperson noted that this stunt has placed an unnecessary strain on park operations during one of the busiest seasons, diverting valuable staff time and resources from regular maintenance and visitor services.
Historical Context of Engineering Pranks
While no individual or group has claimed responsibility for the Stawamus Chief incident, it bears striking resemblance to similar pranks historically attributed to University of British Columbia engineering students. According to historical records from The Ubyssey student publication:
- Engineering students have engaged in challenging pranks since the 1940s and 1950s
- Notable previous incidents include a Volkswagen Beetle suspended from the Lions Gate Bridge in 2008
- Another Beetle was placed atop the Vancouver Public Library in 1996
- The same red Beetle with a Canadian flag appeared on San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge in 2001
Despite these historical patterns, the UBC Engineering Undergraduate Society has never officially acknowledged involvement in such stunts. Postmedia News has reached out to the RCMP, UBC engineering representatives, and Squamish Nation officials for comment on the current situation.
The Environment and Parks Ministry continues to emphasize that such pranks create genuine safety hazards and operational challenges for park staff, particularly during peak visitation periods when resources are already stretched thin.
