Solo skier dies after falling into tree well

A 34-year-old skier from Washington died on Monday at Mount Bachelor after falling into a tree well. The man, Benjamin Shelkey from Seattle, was skiing alone when the accident occurred. Snowboarders riding nearby noticed his tracks and quickly alerted rescuers using an Apple device. They sent a text message with their GPS coordinates to help guide the rescue team. Rescuers reached Shelkey and uncovered him from the snow. They transported him to the Mt. Bachelor Clinic, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities are investigating the incident. They noted that Shelkey’s death appeared to be caused by snow immersion suffocation. The sheriff’s office is reminding everyone to be cautious as snow levels increase. Sheriff Kent van der Kamp expressed condolences for Shelkey's loss and praised the quick actions of the snowboarders and ski patrollers involved in the rescue. He urged outdoor enthusiasts to remain aware of the risks associated with deep snow conditions.