As news accounts have reported, two men died while snowboarding at Mt. Hood Meadows last week. 45-year-old Ryan Zeitner of Portland sustained fatal injuries in a fall on a run in Heather Canyon Sunday, despite life-saving efforts made by ski patrol and a doctor. On Monday, the body of 47-year-old Tim Bauters of Sunnyvale, California was found in a closed area also in Heather Canyon (but not on the same run). Bauters was reported missing by family when he failed to return home and medical examiners have yet to determine cause of death.
These are tragic accidents and our hearts go out to the families and friends of Ryan and Tim. This is a shock that is felt by our entire snow sports community.
Our teams are conducting a full investigation, and we are working closely with the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Forest Service to review the incidents. We will continue to be vigilant in terrain assessment and be proactive in educating our guests regarding the variable and extreme conditions and risks they may encounter, especially in gated access areas.
Mt. Hood Meadows extends its condolences to the families of Ryan Zeitner and Tim Bauters.
- The Mt. Hood Meadows Team