Diamond Lake, Oregon- A skier died following an avalanche on the north/northwest side of Mt. Bailey on Thursday, March 13, 2025. The incident occurred within the motorized closure area during a cat skiing excursion operated by Diamond Lake Resort.
The avalanche struck at approximately 3:45 p.m., trapping one member of the skiing party, identified as 50-year-old Brian Thomas Roberts of Bend, Oregon. Fellow skiers quickly located and dug Roberts out from the snow. Two nurses who were part of the group attempted lifesaving measures, but Roberts succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The ski party was the fourth of the day to engage in cat skiing at Mt. Bailey, a guided service through Diamond Lake Resort. Avalanche test digs had been conducted earlier in the day.
Following the incident, the group traveled approximately two miles to the nearest snowmobile trail, where they were met by responders and Diamond Lake Resort staff. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) evaluated other members of the party at Three Lakes Snow Park.
One additional skier sustained a laceration or puncture injury, believed to have been caused by a branch or ski pole. The injured individual declined ambulance transport.
Responding agencies included Diamond Lake Resort employees, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers, and Umpqua Valley Ambulance. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management Search and Rescue Coordinator also provided support.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation into the incident.
Source: DCSO
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