Heartbreak on the Slopes: Skier Dies on Mammoth's Expert Run as Chairlift Riders Watch in Horror

There are days on the mountain that feel truly magical, and then there are those that turn somber, etching themselves into the collective memory for all the wrong reasons. Sadly, earlier this month, Mammoth Mountain experienced one of the latter. On February 6th, 2026, a hush fell over a section of the resort as a tragic accident claimed the life of 70-year-old Peter Reginelli of Mammoth Lakes. It's a truly heartbreaking story, especially given the circumstances under which it unfolded.

The incident, as harrowing as it sounds, took place on the notoriously challenging "Climax" run. You see, this isn't just any slope; it's an expert-level descent that demands skill and precision. Just before 1 p.m., what started as another day of skiing for Reginelli took a sudden, irreversible turn. He fell, and the impact was severe. What makes this particular tragedy even more poignant, even more difficult to process, is that numerous individuals riding the adjacent Chair 2 lift watched the entire event unfold below them. Imagine that — being suspended above, utterly helpless, as a life-altering moment plays out before your very eyes. It's an image that I'm sure will haunt those witnesses for quite some time.

Emergency services, as you'd expect, were on the scene quickly, but despite their best efforts, the outcome was grim. The Mono County Sheriff's Office later confirmed the passing of Mr. Reginelli. According to the official report, the cause of death was attributed to "multiple blunt force injuries." It's a stark reminder of the immense forces at play in a sport like skiing, even when precautions are taken. In fact, authorities noted that Reginelli was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, which only underscores the sheer unpredictability and inherent risks associated with high-speed, challenging terrain.

For those of us who love the mountains, who understand the thrill and the freedom that comes with carving through fresh powder or tackling a challenging run, incidents like this serve as a very real, very sobering reminder. They pull us back to earth, reminding us that even in our pursuit of joy and adventure, danger can lurk. Mammoth Mountain is, of course, a beloved destination, known for its incredible slopes and breathtaking views, but even there, nature's power and the unforgiving physics of a fall can have devastating consequences.

Our hearts certainly go out to Peter Reginelli's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. The skiing community, especially in a tight-knit place like Mammoth Lakes, undoubtedly feels this loss deeply. It's a somber chapter in the mountain's story, one that highlights the fine line between exhilarating sport and unforeseen peril. May he rest in peace.