Colorado Skier Dies After Falling Into A Tree Well At Grand Targhee

ALTA, Wyoming – A 67-year-old Colorado man passed away on Saturday after he fell into a tree well at Grand Targhee resort.

According to East Idaho News, the man was identified as William Douglas England of Lakewood, Colorado by Teton County Coroner Brent Blue. The matter of death is unconfirmed, but England was trapped upside down in a tree well. The death was confirmed by Grand Targhee Ski Resort general manager Geordie Gillett.

“Our condolences go out to the friends and family. It’s a tragedy. It’s also just very emotional for the patrollers, everybody on the team, and the resort as a whole. Definitely some heavy hearts around here the last few days.” – Geordie Gillet

England and his partner reportedly separated under the Colter Lift, with his partner returning to the base of the run. After failing to hear anything from England for 10 to 15 minutes, his ski partner contacted ski patrol and told them to look in the trees between Silver Jade and Eleanor. England had already been discovered by other skiers who attempted to dig him out.

EMTs were dispatched via snowmobile and attempts were made to resuscitate on the mountain. Eventually England was flown to Teton Valley Hospital in Driggs via hospital and was formally pronounced dead.

“Tree skiing is a lot of fun, people really enjoy it. The best thing you can do is ski with a buddy and keep very close eyes on each other. Limit the amount of time between losing sight of each other, so if there is an incident, you have as accurate of an area as possible.” – Geordie Gillet

Our thoughts go out to the friends and family of the deceased, and all those involved.