At about 7:30 a.m. on December 26, an in-bounds avalanche occurred at California’s Mammoth Mountain ski resort, ultimately resulting in the death of a ski patroller.

According to a press release from the resort, the avalanche occurred prior to ski area operations and during avalanche mitigation work in the area of Lincoln Mountain. Two patrollers were caught in the avalanche, both of whom were immediately transported to Mammoth Hospital. One patroller had sustained more serious injuries and was transported out of the area for care, while the other ski patroller was initially being evaluated for possible broken bones.

A first update from the resort on December 27 indicated that the ski patroller who had sustained the less serious injuries underwent a successful surgery the day after the avalanche, then said to be recovering from his injuries. An update regarding the ski patroller who had been transported out of the area wouldn’t be released until the following day, when on December 28, the resort announced that he had died.

“With profound sorrow, Mammoth Mountain confirms that the ski patroller who was critically injured and hospitalized Friday has died from his injuries,” wrote the resort. “Cole Murphy, 30, was an experienced patroller with a deep passion for the mountains and love for his career.”

The resort also shared a message from Cole’s family in their press release on the tragic situation:

“With hearts that are aching and full of love, we share the passing of our beloved son, Cole Murphy, who was involved in a tragic accident at Mammoth Mountain. He was just 30 years old. In these tender days, he is held close by the family and friends who cherished him deeply. Cole moved through the world with kindness, intention, and a wholehearted devotion to the life he chose.

The mountain was where Cole felt most alive. It was his place of purpose, his community, and his second home. Serving on ski patrol wasn’t just a role for him—it was a calling. To his ski patrol family, the ones who worked beside him, had confidence in him, and shared a bond shaped by snow, service, and unwavering camaraderie: thank you for loving him as one of your own. That brotherhood meant more to him than words can ever express.

At the center of Cole’s heart was Hayley—his partner, his joy, his steady place in the world. Their love was built on adventure, laughter, and a connection that ran deep. She is forever a part of who he was, and always will be. Cole also held his family close, meeting life with an easy smile, a generous spirit, and a warmth that drew people in wherever he went.

We find ourselves without the right words, but never without love. We are profoundly grateful for the compassion, tenderness, and support that have surrounded our family during this unimaginable time. As we begin to navigate the path ahead, we carry with us the memories, the love, and the bright, enduring light that Cole brought into all of our lives.”

The fatal avalanche occurred after Mammoth Mountain had received more than five feet of snow since December 23. Following the avalanche, ski operations were closed for the rest of the day.

This is the second avalanche-related death to occur at Mammoth Mountain this year, both involving the death of a ski patroller. In February 2025, an avalanche that occurred during mitigation work in an area called “The Avy Chutes” – also on Lincoln Mountain – resulted in the death of ski patroller Claire Murphy. Six feet of snow had fallen within 36 hours of that tragic incident, which occurred on February 14. Murphy’s death was announced by the resort on February 22.

Both of these tragic incidents highlight the level of risk that ski patrollers may face while on the job.

Sincere condolences go out to those impacted by these deaths.

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