Update: This post has been updated to reflect the fact the the deceased was snowmobiling, not skiing at the time of the avalanche
More sad news from the Rockies as a second avalanche related fatality is being reported in just the past 3 days. According to the Summit Daily, two snowmobilers triggered an avalanche on Georgia Pass just east of Breckenridge. The slide ultimately killed one of the snowmobilers at approximately 11 a.m.
A Flight for Life helicopter was dispatched to the scene along with Summit County Sheriff’s Office personnel and Summit County Rescue Group volunteers.
“One individual was carried down the slide path — we believe into the trees — but we don’t have information to provide on who the individual was.” –SCRG spokesman Charles Pitman
Early reports are the slide happened above tree line on a north-facing slope between the Middle Fork of the Swan River and Georgia Pass east of Breckenridge.
“The most likely avalanches right now involved the recent storm snow. On most slopes, the threat from fairly large, wet avalanches is the most widespread problem.”
This is the second avalanche fatality in Colorado in 3 days. On Sunday a 30 year veteran of Mountain Rescue Aspen was killed in a slide in the Maroon Bowl area. Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends effected by these tragic losses.
Summit Daily had a photographer and filmer on scene. To see a short interview with Summit County Rescue Group spokesman Charles Pitman go HERE.