An experienced skier was tragically killed in an avalanche in Idaho on Friday, leaving a community in mourning.
In a chilling reminder of the unpredictable power of nature, a group of skiers at the Sundance Resort in Utah narrowly escaped a massive snow avalanche. Captured on video by Thomas Farley, the incident unfolded as a large powder cloud filled the sky, sending a cascade of snow down the mountainside.
Friday's tragedy struck in the Lost River Range of Idaho, where 48-year-old Dr. Terrence "Terry" O'Connor became the sole victim of an avalanche while skiing with a partner on Donaldson Peak. The incident occurred at approximately 11:55 a.m., according to officials.
As the pair descended from their ski descent, O'Connor accidentally triggered a small wind slab avalanche. Tragically, the slide carried him downhill, triggering a much larger and more powerful avalanche.
O'Connor's ski partner wasted no time in alerting authorities and using a satellite communication device to call for help. She located O'Connor with her rescue transceiver and probe pole, but he was buried under at least five feet of snow.
Despite her heroic efforts to dig him out with a shovel and begin CPR, O'Connor succumbed to his injuries. Search and rescue teams subsequently evacuated him, but their efforts ultimately proved futile.
Dr. O'Connor was a highly respected emergency room physician at St. Luke's Wood River Medical Center. His death has sent shockwaves through his community, and the Idaho EMS Physician Commission, where he was previously affiliated, has expressed its deep condolences.
Social media has been flooded with tributes to Dr. O'Connor, whose service as a physician and his unwavering enthusiasm for life have left a lasting impression on his community. Many have described him as a hero and an inspiration.
Details about the exact cause of the avalanche are still under investigation, and the Custer County Coroner's Office is assisting with the inquiry.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in backcountry skiing. Even experienced skiers are not immune to the risks, and it is crucial to always be prepared and aware of the potential for avalanches.
