Industry News
A skier tragically lost his life at Mt. Bachelor on March 17, 2025, after falling into a tree well and becoming trapped in deep snow. The victim, identified as 34-year-old Benjamin Shelkey of Seattle, Washington, was found unresponsive by fellow skiers who worked desperately to free him before beginning CPR.
The emergency unfolded at 3:04 p.m. when Deschutes County 911 received an SOS text message from an Apple device via satellite. The message reported a “trapped and injured person in steep terrain,” with GPS coordinates placing the location on the west side of Mt. Bachelor.
911 dispatchers immediately deployed a coordinated response, dispatching Mt. Bachelor Ski Patrol, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) deputies, Search and Rescue teams, and an AirLink helicopter. Dispatchers also established voice contact with the reporting party and provided CPR instructions. Ski patrollers reached the scene and took over patient care. Shelkey was quickly transported to the Mt. Bachelor Clinic, but despite resuscitation efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators determined that Shelkey was buried headfirst in a tree well—a hollow space created by low branches that prevent snow from compacting. These hazards pose a significant risk to skiers and snowboarders, especially in deep powder conditions. Mt. Bachelor had received 37 inches of snow in the last 48 hours and over five feet in the last seven days. Witnesses at the scene estimated that it took 15 to 20 minutes to free him before resuscitation efforts began.
While the exact cause of death is still under investigation, officials say the circumstances are consistent with snow immersion suffocation (SIS), a well-documented risk for skiers in deep snow. In the wake of the tragedy, Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp issued a statement urging outdoor enthusiasts to remain vigilant in backcountry and resort areas.
“This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts are with Benjamin Shelkey’s family and friends,” van der Kamp said. “We also recognize the swift response and dedication of those who assisted in this rescue effort. Tragedies like this remind us of the risks of outdoor recreation, and we encourage everyone to take precautions when venturing into deep snow conditions.”
The sheriff’s office emphasized the importance of skiing with a partner, staying within sight of one another, and carrying proper safety equipment, including avalanche beacons and shovels.
This incident underscores the dangers of tree wells, a risk that has claimed multiple lives in ski areas across the country. Experts advise that if a skier or snowboarder falls into a tree well, partners should act quickly, digging them out as fast as possible while keeping their airway clear. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office thanked all those involved in the rescue, including Deschutes County 911, Mt. Bachelor National Ski Patrol, U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement, and AirLink, for their professionalism and commitment to public safety.
Mt. Bachelor, known for its vast terrain and deep snowfall, attracts skiers and snowboarders nationwide. However, as this tragedy highlights, even the most experienced riders must remain aware of the inherent risks of deep snow conditions.
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