Not an ‘innocent prank’: Squamish mayor weighs in as Volkswagen continues to hang from mountain

It’s an eye-catching, wild prank that’s garnered plenty of attention, but the mayor of Squamish is calling it disrespectful.

It’s an eye-catching and unusual sight that’s drawn plenty of attention, but the mayor of Squamish isn’t impressed.

For more than a week now, a hollowed-out red Volkswagen Beetle has remained suspended above the Sea to Sky Highway on the side of Papoose mountain, just south of the Stawamus Chief.

While no one has taken credit for the stunt, similar incidents in the past have been linked to UBC Engineering students.

Mayor Armond Hurford says the area holds important cultural meaning for the Squamish Nation.

“What may have felt like an innocent prank has had multiple direct and indirect impacts,” said Hurford via statement to CTV News. “This is an area that deserves respect and that wasn’t the case here.”

The Ministry of Environment has closed the nearby trail area, citing safety reasons, saying the hope is to have the car removed by the end of the week.

While no cost estimate has been provided, the ministry said staff have been forced to divert significant time and resources to the incident.

The UBC Engineering Undergraduate Society has denied any involvement.