According to the sheriff’s office, a snowboarder from Oregon died last week after being swept up in an accident at Newberry National Volcanic Monument’s Paulina Peak.
After receiving SOS alerts from nearby areas, Erik Hefflefinger fell by air, and a search and rescue team was dispatched to reach him.
Oregon State Police also responded, but were unable to reach Hefflefinger due to the snow conditions.
After the avalanche, the sheriff’s rescue crew was also delayed
SKIER SURVIVES NEW HAMPSHIRE AVALANCHE, FOUND UNINJURED AFTER 500-FOOT TUMBLE
Paulina Peak is the highest point on the Newberry Volcano at 7,984 feet.
Officials said that the 33-year old had a faint pulse but succumbed to his injuries within one hour.
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He was taken to the Snow Park for a 10-mile walk and then released to his family.
Hefflefinger’s friends, who had also been snowboarding down before him, claimed that they saw Hefflefinger being carried over the cliff by some avalanche debris. They were able reach him before rescuers could begin CPR.
Investigators believe Hefflefinger might have fallen on a tree.
According to the department, all three snowboarders were equipped with proper avalanche safety gear.
After the nine-year absence of any deaths from avalanches, two more deaths by avalanches have been reported in the County so far this year.
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“The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office would remind everyone recreating on the backcountry to make sure that you have the right equipment and training,” the tee department stated.
Paulina Peak is the peak at 7,984 feet.
