At a Glance
- A 30-year-old ski patroller, Cole Murphy, died after an avalanche at Mammoth Mountain on Dec. 26, 2025.
- A second patroller was injured but is recovering after successful surgery.
- Another patroller death occurred in February during avalanche mitigation work.
Why it matters: The incident highlights the risks ski patrol teams face during avalanche mitigation and the ongoing danger at Mammoth Mountain.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol was conducting avalanche mitigation work at about 7:30 a.m. when a slide occurred on Lincoln Mountain, resulting in the fatal avalanche that took Cole Murphy‘s life.
The Incident
The avalanche struck the patrol team early in the morning, catching Cole Murphy and another team member. Cole Murphy, 30, was described by Mammoth Resort officials as an experienced patroller with a deep passion for the mountains.
Family Statement
Murphy’s family wrote:
> “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,”
Current Status
- The second patroller underwent successful surgery and is recovering.
- Mammoth Resort confirmed the death of Cole Murphy and praised his dedication.
- In February, another ski patroller died after an avalanche during mitigation work on the mountain.
Key Takeaways
- Cole Murphy, 30, was killed in a Dec. 26 avalanche at Mammoth Mountain.
- A second patroller is recovering after surgery.
- The incident follows a February fatality, underscoring ongoing avalanche risks.
The tragedy underscores the perilous work of ski patrol teams and the continual danger posed by avalanches on Mammoth Mountain.
