Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. President Cathy Towtongie today offered sincere condolences to the Canadian Coast Guard and the families of the three passengers aboard the CCGS Amundsen’s helicopter that crashed into the water in the McClure Strait near Banks Island in the Northwest Territories.

The helicopter and three passengers were checking ice conditions at the time of the fatal crash, estimated around 8 pm last night.

“I am deeply sorry for the families experiencing this loss. On behalf of the NTI Board of Directors, I offer our condolences at this very difficult time,” said Towtongie.