Photo: Summit County Sheriff’s Office news release
A skier died in a crash at Breckenridge Ski Resort Wednesday afternoon, according to the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. The accident occurred in the Lake Chutes, a double-black-diamond, hike-to area, on Peak 8.
According to a release from the department, a single bystander witnessed the crash at around 1:30 pm and called ski patrol. Patrollers arrived and administered CPR on scene before transporting him to Peak 8 first aid where he was pronounced dead.
“Our mountain community feels these losses deeply,” Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons said in a statement from the department. “We extend our sincere condolences to the skier’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Summit County Sheriffs say they are still investigating the incident. As of Friday morning, the skier’s identity had not been released to the public nor had the exact Lake Chutes run where the crash occurred. They say the skier was alone when the accident happened, wearing a helmet, and no other skiers or snowboarders were involved in the crash.
The Lake Chutes area is considered highly technical and dangerous terrain. It can be accessed via the Imperial Express Chair, which is the highest lift in North America. Riders then bootpack from the top of the lift to the summit of Peak 8 and traverse toward Peak 9, where Lake Chutes offer incredibly steep runs, hazards, and a drop-in from a large cornice.
