Ski Patroller Remembered for His Caring Spirit After Tragic Avalanche at Mammoth Mountain

Tragic Avalanche Claims Life of Ski Patroller Cole Murphy at Mammoth Mountain

Cole Murphy, a dedicated ski patroller at Mammoth Mountain, passed away in a tragic avalanche incident on Friday. The 30-year-old Washington native had spent the last five years honing his skills in a role he cherished deeply.

Murphy’s step-father, Doug Andreassen, reflected on his passion for the mountains. “He loved it so much,” Andreassen stated. “He cared for everybody. There wasn’t a person on the slopes he didn’t care about.” Family members noted that Murphy viewed Mammoth Mountain as not just his workplace, but as his home and a significant part of his identity.

The avalanche occurred while Murphy and another ski patroller were engaged in avalanche mitigation on Lincoln Mountain. The second patroller sustained injuries but has since undergone successful surgery and is recovering, according to Mammoth Resort officials.

Ski patrollers like Murphy are essential to mountain safety, undergoing specialized training in medical response and rescue operations. The incident coincided with severe weather conditions as an atmospheric river caused heavy snowfall and rain across California.

Andreassen was present at the hospital where the injured patrollers were taken. He recounted the profound respect Murphy earned from his colleagues, noting the presence of dozens of fellow patrollers who visited to express their condolences. “He was hilarious, uplifting, hardworking, genuine. He was a hero without being recognized,” Andreassen said. “He didn’t want the recognition, yet he fit that as a hero.”

In a gesture of compassion, Andreassen confirmed that Murphy’s organs will be donated. “That will give a little bit of Cole’s spirit out there to others,” he remarked.

In a heartfelt statement, Murphy’s family shared that “the mountain was where Cole felt most alive. It was his place of purpose, his community, and his second home.” They expressed gratitude to his ski patrol family, noting that serving in this role was a calling for Murphy, reflecting a bond built on trust, service, and camaraderie.