4 minutes

Dennis Katsnelson

The tragic incident took place in deep Colorado, where a skier was killed in an avalanche that fell southwest of the town of Marble. Joel Shute, 36, from Glenwood Springs, was skiing with a group of friends when the avalanche came down, burying him under a 4ft layer of snow.

Rescuers worked tirelessly to find and retrieve Jester's body, which was finally found on Saturday afternoon. Two other members of the group managed to survive the avalanche, with one going for help and the other being airlifted to hospital with injuries.

Authorities said the avalanche was due to the recent heavy snowfall, which increased the risk of avalanches in the area. The center has recorded 18 avalanche fatalities across the US this winter, with eight of those occurring in Colorado alone. Last winter there were 37 avalanche-related deaths, the most since 1950.

Jester was an experienced skier who was aware of the risks associated with cross-country skiing. However, his passion for the sport drove him to take calculated risks and his family members noted that he loved skiing and traveling. He even used his pilot's license to fly with friends and family for work and leisure.

This tragic incident highlights the importance of respecting the power of nature and taking the necessary precautions when venturing into the backcountry. Avalanche safety is a crucial aspect of skiing and all skiers should be well informed and have the necessary knowledge and equipment to minimize risks. As we mourn the loss of Jester, let us be mindful of safety and responsibility while enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors.