Iqaluit woman, 39, dies in snowmobile mishap

Police are still investigating a fatal snowmobile accident April 17 that claimed the life of an Iqaluit woman, the RCMP said April 18 in a news release.

Naomi Alainga, 39, died after she became separated from her companions while travelling on the Pangnirtung trail about two hours north of Iqaluit, police said.

Police said they learned of the accident at about 3:00 p.m. that day.

Though they do not suspect “foul play,” police said the Iqaluit RCMP detachment and the coroner’s office are still investigating.

“Due to a death in our community, thoughts and prayers to the family,” organizers of Iqaluit’s Toonik Tyme festival postponed the planned feast and fashion show from April 18 to April 21, although the scheduled snowmobile uphill climb still took place April 18.