The Unofficial team is deeply saddened by the news of today’s events. We would like to send out love and thoughts to the friends and family of Squaw Valley Ski Patrolmen Andrew Entin.
A Squaw Valley USA ski patrol member died Tuesday after being partially buried during avalanche control work, officials of the Squaw Valley Fire Department said. Andrew Entin, 41, was pronounced dead at Renown Regional Medical Center, the Washoe County medical examiner staff said. The cause of death will be determined at an autopsy today, Melissa Krall, a deputy investigator, said. Entin was doing routine snow safety work about 8 a.m. before runs were open to the puiblic on Headwall, a route he had been working for nine years, when the avalanche occurred, Squaw Valley USA officials said.
He was caught in a slide that left him partially buried. Entin suffered multiple fractures and trauma as a result of the avalanche. He was taken to Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee and transferred to Renown Regional Medical Center, Squaw Valley fire Capt. Brad Chisholm said. Nancy Cushing, the resort’s chief executive officer, said Entin was an outstanding member of the ski patrol who positively affected countless people’s lives through his 16 years on the job.
“The Squaw Valley family unites in wishing Andrew Entin’s wife and family our deepest sympathy,” she said. “Our hearts go out to them at this difficult time. We will not forget Andrew, his camaraderie and his courage,”
The Sierra Avalanche Center issued an advisory Tuesday morning calling for high avalanche danger near and above the treeline on northwest, north, northeast, east and southeast aspects 35 degrees and steeper.
Below the treeline, the avalanche danger was forecast to be moderate with pockets of considerable danger in open, wind affected areas, 37 degrees and steeper. A memorial for Entin is being planned, officials said.