Tragic Accident Claims Young Snowboarder's Life at Mount Bachelor

Michael Fulton10 Apr 2025

TL;DR

A 13-year-old snowboarder from Washington lost his life in a collision with a tree at Mount Bachelor Ski Resort in Oregon, despite wearing a helmet.

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Fatal Snowboarding Accident at Mount Bachelor

A tragic incident occurred at Mount Bachelor Ski Resort in Oregon, resulting in the death of a 13-year-old snowboarder from Washington. The young rider was found unresponsive in a wooded area near the Sunrise chairlift after being reported missing earlier that day. Despite immediate rescue efforts and the fact that he was wearing a helmet, the teenager did not survive the collision with a tree.

The Mount Bachelor Ski Patrol discovered the injured snowboarder and quickly alerted emergency services. Responders from various agencies, including the Mount Bachelor Urgent Care Clinic, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, Bend Fire and Rescue, and AirLink, arrived promptly at the scene. They initiated lifesaving measures and transported the young rider to the resort's medical facility. Unfortunately, the severity of his injuries proved fatal.

Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp expressed deep sorrow over the incident, acknowledging the profound impact on the community. He extended condolences to the boy's family and friends while commending the swift and compassionate response of the ski patrol and first responders.

The identity of the young snowboarder has not been disclosed out of respect for the family and due to the ongoing investigation. Authorities are continuing to gather information about the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Mount Bachelor Ski Resort, located near Bend, Oregon, is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. The resort spans over 4,300 acres and offers a diverse range of terrain for riders of all skill levels. This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks in snow sports, even when proper safety equipment is used. The resort and local authorities may review safety protocols in light of this incident to prevent future accidents.

About the author

Michael Fulton

Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.

50+ resorts visited15 years skiing

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