ASHLAND, Ore. – A 76-year-old man tragically lost his life Friday morning after colliding with a tree at Mount Ashland Ski Area. The incident occurred on the Windsor Chairline, a trail known for its challenging terrain and categorized as “most difficult.”
According to the ski area’s press release, the man was skiing when he struck the tree. Ski patrol responded promptly, arriving at the scene and transporting him to the ski area’s medical room. Despite efforts to save him, including the arrival of a Mercy Flights helicopter to assist with life-saving measures, the skier succumbed to his injuries.
Mount Ashland Ski Area General Manager Andrew Gast expressed deep sorrow in the release, offering condolences to the man’s family and friends. “We are heartbroken by this loss,” said Gast. “Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.”
The incident remains under investigation, and further details regarding the victim’s identity and the specifics of the crash have not yet been released. Authorities are continuing to assess the situation. The ski area has also emphasized its commitment to safety and providing support to those affected by the tragedy.
The community has been left shaken by the accident, and tributes to the skier have begun to pour in from those who frequent the slopes of Mount Ashland.