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Snowmobilers Killed in Washington Avalanche
12 Jan
Summary
- Two men died in a central Washington avalanche on Jan. 9.
- Four men were snowmobiling near Longs Pass trail when caught.
- Survivors used a satellite device to call for help.
A devastating avalanche in the mountains of northern Kittitas County, Washington, on January 9 resulted in the deaths of two men. The incident occurred near the Longs Pass trail, catching four backcountry snowmobilers in its path around 4 p.m. local time.
Two survivors, Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie, were able to contact authorities using a satellite communication device. Rescue teams responded but were unable to recover the bodies of Paul Markoff and Erik Henne until the following morning due to hazardous conditions. The Northwest Avalanche Center is assisting in the investigation into the avalanche's cause.
This fatal incident highlights the risks associated with winter recreation. The region had experienced heavy snowfall in the days prior, according to the National Weather Service. On average, 25 to 30 people die in avalanches in the U.S. each winter, with backcountry enthusiasts being the most frequent victims.
