JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. (WKRC) — A part-time ski instructor's death has been ruled a homicide after a collision with another skier, according to reports.
The Teton County Sheriff's Office issued a statement on Facebook, noting that two skiers collided on Rendezvous Trail at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village on April 14. Authorities asked anyone who witnessed the collision to contact a detective.
PEOPLE reported the Teton County Coroner said 71-year-old part-time ski instructor Peter Wuerslin died after he collided with a 34-year-old skier. Per PEOPLE, the coroner confirmed that Wuerslin's death was ruled a homicide.
According to Snow Brains, the 71-year-old had been skiing with peers at the time of the collision and had been wearing a helmet. The outlet reported that the 34-year-old, who was not identified, was not wearing a helmet.
Per Snow Brains, both men were taken to an urgent care clinic via ambulance, and later that day, Wuerslin was flown to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, where he was placed on life support. According to the Billings Gazette, Wuerslin's family said that the 71-year-old suffered “severe brain damage that is irreversible." The 34-year-old skier was released later that day, per the outlet.
PEOPLE reported Wuerslin passed away at the hospital on April 17, with Jackson Hole News & Guides reporting that the 71-year-old "never regained consciousness" after colliding with the other skier.
Ski patrol reports obtained by Ski magazine noted, the 34-year-old "failed to maneuver" around Wuerslin prior to the collision.
These incidents unfortunately continue to be an occurrence for skiers. It is your duty as an uphill skier to avoid those below you. We ask that everyone ski in a safe and respectful manner,” Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Risk and Safety Director Jon Bishop told Buckrail.The coroner told Ski magazine that his determination is independent of law enforcement's investigation and does not mean criminal charges will be brought against the 34-year-old skier.
The investigation remains ongoing, according to PEOPLE.
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