Heather Gross, a graduate student in linguistics, was killed on Sunday evening from injuries sustained during an avalanche at the Snowbird ski resort earlier in the day.
According to Snowbird spokesman Dave Fields, during a descent down the Mount Baldy portion of the resort, Gross unexpectedly lost a ski and stopped to find it. The unanticipated avalanche caught her off guard during her search, burying her in its path. Gross remained caught under the snow for close to an hour, despite the efforts of Snowbird Ski Patrol, Salt Lake County Search and Rescue, Backcountry Rescue, United Fire Authority and friends to retrieve her. Once rescued, Gross was air lifted to the U Hospital, but was unable to overcome the injuries she sustained in the accident and passed away later that evening.
Those that knew Gross best said that she loved life and that she lived it to the fullest. Her father, Dennis Gross, said that her accomplishments were far reaching and encompassed many things.
“She did a life worth living in her short 27 years here,” Dennis Gross said. “It’s pretty amazing what she did. She crammed a lot into the short time she was with us.”
The incident remains under investigation, with the cause of the avalanche and the response to it being closely examined. Experts are also looking at ways to ensure that tragedies like this one are not repeated on Utah’s slopes.
Gross had been skiing on a portion of the mountain termed as “in-bounds” by the resort, meaning that it was approved for skiers to descend down with little risk for avalanches. Sunday was the first day that this portion of the mountain was open to the public this season, and Snowbird Ski Patrol had checked earlier on Dec. 14 for avalanche conditions. In-bounds avalanches are rare, with this being the first one at Snowbird since 1977.
“On behalf of the entire Snowbird staff we extend our deepest sympathies to the victim’s family and friends,” said Snowbird President and Chief Operating Officer Bob Bonar on the resort’s Web site. “I want to thank all of the emergency personnel involved in the search but also the many guests and season pass holders who volunteered to help in the rescue effort.”
The linguistics department also expressed their deep sympathy for Gross and her family. “Heather was a remarkable student who brought to us a lot of positive energy, enthusiasm and a strong spirit of unity,” said Linguistic Departmental Chairman Ed Rubin in a statement. “Our deepest condolences go out to Heather’s family and friends.”
The department is also soliciting monetary donations from U students to help pay for flowers and a card for Gross’s family and close friends. Information about donations can be found on the linguistics department Web site, http://www.linguistics.utah.