Home / Disasters and Accidents / Tree Well Danger Claims Young Skier in Tahoe
Tree Well Danger Claims Young Skier in Tahoe
21 Feb
Summary
- A 21-year-old recent graduate died on a challenging ski trail.
- He was discovered after falling into a snow-filled tree well.
- His death is under investigation amid recent avalanche fatalities.

A recent graduate of San José State University, Colin Kang, 21, was found dead on a challenging ski trail in the Lake Tahoe region. Mr. Kang had been skiing at Northstar California Resort and went missing on Tuesday. His body was located by the Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue Team on Thursday morning.
Authorities believe Mr. Kang may have fallen into a tree well, a hazardous pocket of snow around the base of a tree, which can trap skiers. While this specific incident is under investigation, it occurs amidst heightened awareness of skiing risks following a recent avalanche that claimed eight lives nearby.
Mr. Kang, who graduated in the fall, was last seen near a ski lift connecting to the trail where he was found. His vehicle was located in the resort's parking lot. San José State University expressed deep sadness and offered support resources to those affected by the tragic passing.



