Skier swept away by avalanche dies after being hurled into tree, Colorado officials say

A skier swept into a tree by a backcountry avalanche near Steamboat Springs has died despite the lifesaving efforts of his companion, Colorado officials said.

The two were skiing near the North Fork of Fish Creek when an avalanche occurred at 12:20 p.m. Saturday, March 19, the Colorado Avalanche Information Center said.

One skier escaped but the avalanche hurled the other into a tree, the center said. His companion performed CPR on the man for an hour to no avail.

An emergency medical helicopter evacuated the second skier.

Authorities later identified the dead skier as Andrew Hyde of Steamboat Springs, KCNC reported.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the people involved in this tragic accident,” the center said.

At least 15 people in the U.S. have died in avalanches this season as of March 19, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center.

This story was originally published March 20, 2022 at 6:40 AM with the headline "Skier swept away by avalanche dies after being hurled into tree, Colorado officials say."