Second Victim Killed in Fatal Rockfall in Banff National Park Identified as Hamza Benhilal
BANFF NATIONAL PARK, Alberta — The breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies turned tragically somber last Thursday after a deadly rockfall at Bow Glacier Falls claimed the lives of two hikers. Authorities have now identified one of the victims as Hamza Benhilal, a young man whose vibrant presence, generosity, and adventurous spirit left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
Hamza, originally from Morocco, was living in Canada to pursue new opportunities and explore the natural splendor of his adopted country. He was one of countless newcomers drawn to Canada’s vast wilderness and welcoming communities. At just 28 years old, Hamza had already become a beloved member of the local community in Calgary and had formed deep bonds with friends and roommates who became like family.
The tragedy occurred near Bow Glacier Falls, a popular hiking trail roughly 200 kilometers northwest of Calgary, nestled within Banff National Park. A large slab of rock gave way unexpectedly, triggering a sudden and devastating rockfall. Hikers were caught by surprise, with boulders and debris raining down the mountainside. Two people were killed, and others sustained injuries.
Among the injured was Hamza’s roommate and close friend, Khaled Elgamal, who described the harrowing scene with emotion and heartbreak. “It was just a perfect day, we were taking photos, enjoying the views,” Khaled recalled. “Then everything changed in an instant. I looked up and saw the rocks coming. There was no time.”
Though injured himself, Khaled survived the ordeal — but he lost more than his physical well-being. He lost Hamza, a man he described as “kind, generous, and full of life.” Khaled added, “Hamza was the kind of person who would give you his last dollar, his last meal. He loved people and loved nature. He just wanted to experience life to the fullest. That’s how I’ll remember him.”
News of Hamza’s passing has rippled through communities in Alberta and beyond. Tributes have poured in from friends, coworkers, and fellow immigrants who shared his dreams and journey. Many remember him as a bright light — someone who approached life with hope, humility, and an eagerness to contribute. He volunteered, helped others navigate life in a new country, and never hesitated to lend a hand to those in need.
Hamza’s family, devastated by the news, is now working with Canadian authorities to bring his body home to Morocco. A memorial is also being planned in Calgary for friends and loved ones to gather and honor his memory.
This tragedy has also reignited conversations around safety in national parks. Bow Glacier Falls, while widely regarded as a moderate trail, is situated in terrain prone to natural hazards. Parks Canada has expressed its condolences and is continuing investigations to determine the stability of the area and the causes of the rockfall. They remind visitors to always be aware of changing environmental conditions and heed all posted warnings — though in many cases, as with this event, nature’s power is simply unpredictable.
As Canada Day approaches — a time of reflection, celebration, and remembrance — many will think of Hamza Benhilal and the other soul lost in this terrible event. Their stories serve as both a sobering reminder of life’s fragility and a call to cherish the time we have.
Hamza came to Canada with hope in his heart and left behind a legacy of kindness, courage, and curiosity. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him, and may his spirit live on in the mountains he loved to explore.
Rest in peace, Hamza. You will not be forgotten.