The avalanche occurred in a backcountry region approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Grand Teton National Park.
As the group, consisting of four individuals, ascended a steep slope at an elevation of 10,400 feet (3,150 meters), a massive slab of snow, approximately 5 feet (1.5 meters) thick, dislodged and cascaded down, completely burying one skier and partially covering another, as reported by the local search and rescue teams and the avalanche center.
Emergency responders were alerted about the incident shortly before noon. However, due to inclement weather, a helicopter that attempted to access the site had to turn back, leaving ski rescuers to navigate the challenging conditions and reach the location, which took nearly four hours.
The victim, identified as 36-year-old Kenneth Goff from Lander, Wyoming, was declared dead, according to the Teton County Coroner. The second skier sustained injuries to their legs.
Goff was an experienced nurse and had extensive wilderness experience, including involvement with Lander’s search and rescue team. Since 2017, he served as an instructor at the National Outdoor Leadership School, focusing on climbing and mountaineering courses.
“Kenny was a calm and caring individual, known for his ever-positive attitude. He was a climbing partner to many and a valued friend to all,” said the director of the NOLS Rocky Mountain campus, Sarah Martin. “He will be deeply missed.”
Recently, Wyoming has experienced a series of snowstorms, including one on the day of the tragedy, as noted by Jason Straub from the National Weather Service.
This incident marks the fifth avalanche-related fatality in the United States this winter.
