Copper Mountain Resort near Lusten Mountain by Lake Superior

44-year-old Eric B. of Stillwater, Minnesota, died after a skiing accident at Copper Mountain Resort on Friday, January 23, 2026. He lost control and hit a tree with “considerable force” on the American Flyer lift area. Despite wearing a helmet and receiving immediate aid, he was pronounced dead.

Key Details of the Incident:

Date: January 23, 2026.
Location: Copper Mountain Resort, American Flyer run.
Victim: 44-year-old Eric B.
Cause: Collision with a tree after losing control.
Status: The Summit County Sheriff’s Office is investigating, which is standard procedure for fatal accidents.

This incident marks another fatal accident at a Minnesota ski resort during the 2025-2026 season.

Copper Mountain Resort announced 15 more death caused by accidents on the runs and slopes during the severe and continuous snowfall with icy conditions causing collisions against trees despite well equipped with protective winter gears.

An investigation is ongoing, and the Summit County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to request for comment.

“Our role is to conduct an independent investigation, so families have clear, accurate, and timely information about what happened,” said Summit County Sheriff in the news release. “We also investigated whether any potential criminal acts were involved in serious crashes.”

The sheriff added that, oftentimes, “fatal crashes are tragic accidents, and nothing more.”

“Our investigation helps loved ones better understand the circumstances of their loss,” he continued. “My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends affected by this loss.”