Skier Tragically Dies by Snow Immersion Suffocation in Oregon

Yahoo

18-03-2025

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) has confirmed that a 34-year-old male from Seattle, Washington tragically passed away at Mt. Bachelor ski resort, yesterday, March 17, 2025.An official press release from DCSO states that authorities received an emergency SOS alert from an Apple device at 3:04 p.m. The alert reported a, "trapped and injured person in steep terrain," with GPS coordinates. It is unclear who owned the Apple device at this time. Coordinates indicated the accident took place on the west side of Mt. Bachelor.Mt. Bachelor Ski Patrol, AirLink, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office (DCSO) deputies, and Sheriff Search and Rescue teams were dispatched immediately to the scene. The reporting party attempted CPR and other live-saving measures until ski patrol arrived minutes later.The victim was removed from deep snow and transported to the Mt. Bachelor Clinic, where he succumbed to his injuries. He has since been identified as Benjamin Shelkey.The accident is still being investigated, but authorities revealed that Shelkey was unresponsive and buried in deep snow. The cause of death has not been officially determined, but according to the press release, "the circumstances are consistent with snow immersion suffocation."
Sheriff van der Kamp from DCSO released a statement regarding the incident:"On behalf of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and the Central Oregon community, I want to extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Benjamin Shelkey. This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts are with those who knew and loved him. We also want to recognize the swift response and dedication of all those citizens and ski patrollers who assisted in this rescue effort. Tragedies like this remind us of the risks of outdoor recreation, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions when venturing into deep snow conditions."Mt. Bachelor has received over five feet of snow in the last seven days with up to two feet of new snow in the immediate forecast. Officials are urging skiers and snowboarders to ride with a buddy, wear a beacon, and brush up on tree well and deep snow immersion suffocation safety practices.POWDER extends its thoughts and condolences to Benjamin Shelkey's friends and family during this difficult time.