Industry News
A skier was found dead after being reported missing at Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont, authorities have confirmed.
Brooks Ralph, 27, from Cold Spring, New York, was reported missing around 6:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday. Search operations commenced promptly, involving Stowe Mountain Rescue, the Stowe Police Department, and the Vermont State Police’s search and rescue team. Ralph’s body was discovered in a steep, wooded area near the resort at approximately 11:45 p.m.
While the cause of Ralph’s death is pending determination by the medical examiner, preliminary investigations by the authorities suggest that the incident was accidental.
“Last night Stowe Mountain Rescue was involved in the search and recovery of a young man who died in a tragic skiing accident in backcountry terrain, accessed from Stowe Mountain Resort. As skiers ourselves, we understand the draw to explore the backcountry and we’re devastated at the senseless loss of such a beautiful, adventurous young life. The only thing we can do here is to try to avoid this happening again. So, with apologies for preaching, please note the following:
When you ski in the backcountry you’re facing an entirely different level of risk than resort skiing. There are multiple hazards, from unexpected cliff bands to hidden rocks, potential snow slides and deadly tree wells. Honestly, there is little that can be done to mitigate these hazards, even for expert skiers. Having said that, there are some underlying rules that should ALWAYS be followed:
1/ Only ski terrain you’re familiar with. Go with someone who knows where the cliffs are. Hire a reputable guide if necessary. Don’t ski alone! Not that having a partner can prevent catastrophe, but it might just save you in the case of serious injury.
2/ Tell someone your plans – your intended route and anticipated timeline.
3/ Be equipped to effect your own rescue or survive while you await help. This means carry a first aid kit, protection from the elements, high energy food and water, spare phone battery, headlamps and maybe a fire starting kit. Cumbersome, but important: it might take us a couple of hours to reach you – and hypothermia won’t wait.
4/ Don’t hesitate to reach out for help…before you need it. Dial 911, which gives us your location, and be put in touch with our team. We can help steer you in the right direction and start moving towards you if it seems like you’ll need a rescue.
Let’s honor the life of this young man by following and sharing these principles. It won’t prevent all tragedies but might prevent some.”– Stowe Mountain Rescue social post
Ralph, a graduate of Columbia University in 2019, had been working at Hunter Point Capital for nearly three years, per a statement his colleagues issued expressing profound grief over the loss. The company extended condolences to Ralph’s family and loved ones, highlighting the impact of his tragic demise on the entire team.
An avid athlete, Ralph was actively engaged in various sporting activities, including being a member of the lightweight rowing team during his college years. His LinkedIn page revealed his passion for athletic challenges, such as a cycling event spanning 600 km from Toronto to Montreal, and supporting pediatric oncology care at Toronto SickKids and Montreal Children’s Hospital.
In response to the devastating loss, Stowe Mountain Rescue emphasized the dangers of backcountry skiing while expressing condolences for Ralph’s untimely passing. The rescue group urged caution and awareness among enthusiasts to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
