MAMMOTH LAKES, Calif. — One of two ski patrollers injured in an avalanche at Mammoth Mountain on Friday morning has died, the resort said.
Cole Murphy, 30, was one of two ski patrollers injured while on duty performing mitigation work. He succumbed to his injuries on Sunday.
The other ski patroller is recovering in the hospital after undergoing a successful surgery, according to Mammoth Mountain officials on Saturday. He has not been identified.
Murphy was “an experienced patroller with a deep passion for the mountains and love for his career,” officials said.
Both patrollers were caught in the slide when the avalanche came down on Lincoln Mountain around 7:30 a.m. and had to be transported to Mammoth Hospital, according to a post on Mammoth Mountain’s Instagram.
Murphy’s family released a statement writing:
“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.”
Less than a year ago, a ski patroller died days after getting caught in an avalanche on that same mountain. That incident, which occurred on Valentine’s Day, also trapped another patroller. That person was recovered at the scene uninjured.
KABC in Los Angeles contributed to this report
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