Summit County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Skier Death at Copper Mountain Resort
The Summit County Sheriff’s Office has issued a press release concerning an ongoing independent investigation into the death of a skier at Copper Mountain Resort.
The fatal collision occurred January 23, 2026 on the American Flyer trail where an out of state the skier lost control and collided with a tree. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
The Summit County Coroner’s Office may release the identity of the skier and will determine the official cause and manner of death. Read the press release in it’s entirety below:
The Summit County Sheriff’s Office
COPPER MOUNTAIN, Colo – Jan. 24, 2026 – The Summit County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a skier’s death at Copper Mountain Resort that occurred on January 23, 2026.
Deputies arrived at the resort after receiving a report around 10:45 a.m. that a skier had hit a tree. On scene, deputies learned that a male skier, visiting from out of state, had crashed on American Flyer, an intermediate run at the resort.
The initial investigation shows the skier, who was wearing a helmet, lost control and collided with a tree with considerable force. The crash was witnessed, but no other skiers or riders were involved.
Copper Mountain Ski Patrol responded to the scene, performed lifesaving efforts, and transported the skier to the CommonSpirit Emergency and Urgent Care facility near the base of the mountain, where he was pronounced dead.
“Our role is to conduct an independent investigation, so families have clear, accurate, and timely information about what happened. We also investigate whether any potential criminal elements are involved in serious crashes. Some deputies serve as deputy coroners for deaths in remote areas and ski areas. Most of the time, fatal crashes are tragic accidents, and nothing more. Our investigation helps loved ones better understand the circumstances of their loss.” -Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons
The investigation into this death is ongoing, and details are subject to change.
“My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends affected by this loss.” -Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons.
The Summit County Coroner’s Office may release the individual’s identity at a later time and is responsible for determining the official cause and manner of death.
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