Squaw Valley ski patroller killed during avalanche control
An investigation is underway after a Squaw Valley ski patroller died Tuesday morning at the resort during avalanche control duties.
Joe Zuiches, 42, of Olympic Valley and a member of the Squaw Valley professional ski patrol since 2012, was killed in a fatal incident at 8:35 a.m. during avalanche control activities on top of Gold Coast Ridge.
According to resort officials, the incident does not appear to be avalanche related and North Tahoe Fire Department and the Placer County Sheriff’s Office are on scene conducting the investigation.
"The team at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows is deeply saddened by this tragic event, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends affected," Squaw Valley said in a press release. They will be holding a press conference at 2:00 p.m.
Squaw Valley is closed for the day. Alpine Meadows is open Tuesday.
See SouthTahoeNow.com for updates to this story.