Skier Dies After Avalanche At New Mexico Resort

TAOS COUNTY, NM — One person was killed following an avalance at a New Mexico ski resort that buried two skiers, according to news reports and a company statement.

According to a statement from Taos Ski Valley, an inbounds avalance occurred on the K3 shoot off of Kachina Peak around 11:30 a.m. local time on Thursday. Ski patrol and witnesses responded to the scene and rescued two skiers who had been buried by the snow, the statement said.

The skiers were taken to local hospitals after they were given medical attention.

A hospital officals told The Associated Press that one of the skiers, a 22-year-old man, died after being pulled from the snow. The second victim is in critical condition at the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, according to the AP.

Taos Ski Valley said the ski patrol cleared the area after an exhaustive search and no additional victims were found.

It is unknown what triggered the avalanche but Taos Ski Valley said an investigation of the incident and its cause will be conducted.

"We are deeply saddened by yesterday’s events," Taos Ski Valley said in a statement on Friday. "Our hearts are with the individuals, their family and friends, as well as the larger community that has been affected, including other visitors and our dedicated staff."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Photo: People search for victims after an avalanche buried multiple people near the highest peak of Taos Ski Valley, one of the biggest resorts in New Mexico, Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019. The avalanche rushed down the mountainside of the New Mexico ski resort on Thursday. Photo by Morgan Timms/Taos News via Associated Press