> At a Glance
> – Cole Murphy, 30, died Friday in an avalanche while conducting avalanche mitigation on Lincoln Mountain
> – Murphy served as a ski patroller at Mammoth Mountain for five years
> – A second patroller survived with injuries after surgery
> – Why it matters: This tragedy highlights the risks ski patrol teams take daily to keep mountain visitors safe
Cole Murphy found his calling on Mammoth Mountain, where the 30-year-old Washington native spent five years protecting skiers and snowboarders. His life ended Friday doing exactly what he loved-safeguarding others from avalanche danger.
The Incident
Murphy and another ski patroller were conducting avalanche mitigation work on Lincoln Mountain when the avalanche struck. This behind-the-scenes safety work represents the critical role ski patrollers play in mountain safety, often unseen by the public.
The resort confirmed the second patroller underwent successful surgery and is recovering from injuries sustained in the accident. The avalanche occurred as an atmospheric river brought several days of snow and rain to California.
A Life of Service
Drew Murphy, Cole’s brother, shared the family’s perspective on his brother’s dedication:
> “Cole lived and dedicated his life for the people he loved and for the strangers who called Mammoth Mountain home. He was a man defined by connection, love and a belief that his purpose was inseparable from the well-being of the community around him.”
The family emphasized that Cole followed every protocol and safety procedure perfectly. He was doing the job he loved for the community he cared about.
Community Response
Mammoth Mountain limited lift and terrain operations Wednesday as team members honored their fallen colleague. This gesture demonstrates the tight-knit nature of ski patrol teams who form bonds through shared experiences and mutual trust.
The family expressed gratitude to Cole’s ski patrol family:
> “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.”
Final Gift
In a final act of generosity, Murphy’s organs will be donated to help others. His brother described this as fitting tribute to someone who dedicated his life to helping strangers.
> “Cole’s legacy continues through organ donation, a final gift to people he didn’t know but cared for nonetheless. It is the ultimate reflection of who he was, a man who dedicated his mornings to the safety of others and his sunset to giving them life.”
Key Takeaways
- Cole Murphy served as a Mammoth Mountain ski patroller for five years
- He died conducting avalanche mitigation work to protect mountain visitors
- The incident occurred during severe weather from an atmospheric river
- A second patroller survived with injuries
- Mammoth Mountain honored him by limiting operations for a day
- His organs will be donated as his final act of service
Murphy’s death serves as a sobering reminder of the risks mountain safety professionals accept daily to protect others enjoying the slopes.
