A nature-loving doctor died Friday when he was caught in an avalanche while skiing in Idaho, authorities said.
Dr. Terrence “Terry” O’Connor of Ketchum, Idaho, has been identified as the sole victim of the avalanche, officials said. The Custer County Coroner’s Office confirmed the death to Fox News Digital Sunday night.
Authorities say the 48-year-old man was skiing with his partner at Donaldson Peak in the Lost River Range when he accidentally caused an avalanche.
Officials said the avalanche started around 11:55 a.m. O’Connor was referred to as Skier 1 in authorities’ reports.
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On Friday, Dr. Terrence “Terry” O’Connor was killed in an avalanche in Idaho. (Terry O’Connor, via Facebook / Sawtooth Avalanche Center)
“Skier 1 was caught in a small wind-driven slab avalanche while descending to the ski area,” the Sawtooth Avalanche Center report said. “The slide carried Skier 1 downhill, causing a second large avalanche.”
The report added that O’Connor’s ski partner acted quickly to remove O’Connor from the snow and alert authorities.
“Skier 2 used a satellite communication device to call for help before descending the avalanche path,” the statement continues. “She used a rescue transceiver and probe pole to locate Skier 1. Skier 1 was buried under at least 5 feet of snow.”
“She dug Skier 1 out of the snow with a shovel and began CPR. Search and rescue teams responded and evacuated Skier 1, but he did not survive the accident.”
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The avalanche was accidentally caused by O’Connor while skiing. (Sawtooth Avalanche Center, via Facebook)
The Sawtooth Avalanche Center said both O’Connor and his ski partner were experienced backcountry skiers. At the time of his death, O’Connor was working as an emergency room physician at St. Luke’s Wood River Medical Center.
The Idaho State Board of Paramedics, O’Connor’s former member, posted on Facebook expressing its condolences over the tragic death.
“Terry is an outstanding physician who played a pivotal role in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, exemplifying the public health role of emergency medical directors in their communities,” the Facebook post said. is written. “His death will be missed not only in the valley itself, but throughout the state and region.”
Mr O’Connor’s death prompted a sympathetic response on social media, with many members of his community praising his contribution.
“A hero to all of us, a life lived with so much grace and enthusiasm,” one Facebook user wrote. “thank you [for] A great example for all of us. ”
The avalanche occurred at Donaldson Peak in the Lost River Mountains of Idaho. (Sawtooth Avalanche Center)
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Another commenter wrote: “There is no way to understand a loss like this.” “He gave so much in so many ways. His value cannot be measured or replaced.”
