JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. – The death of a ski instructor at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton County has been ruled a homicide. Peter Wuerslin, a 71-year-old part-time ski instructor, was killed on April 14 after colliding with another skier on the Rendezvous Trail at about 10 am. The Teton County Coroner confirmed that Wuerslin’s cause of death was an intracranial hemorrhage and has been ruled a homicide.
Wuerslin was skiing with a group when a 34-year-old unidentified skier collided with him from uphill. Despite wearing a helmet, Wuerslin suffered severe brain damage and never regained consciousness after the incident. The unidentified skier, who also lives in the Jackson Hole area, was released to recover at home.
The collision has prompted an ongoing investigation by the Teton County Sheriff’s Office. Ski patrol reports obtained by Ski magazine indicate that the unidentified skier failed to maneuver around Wuerslin before the accident occurred.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the ski community and the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Wuerslin, who joined JHMR as a ski instructor in 1978, was described as a beloved member of the community and a long-tenured instructor in the Mountain Sports School. JHMR President Mary Kate Buckley expressed condolences to Wuerslin’s family, friends, and the community.
It is extremely rare for a death resulting from a ski collision to be ruled a homicide, according to Ski magazine. As the investigation continues, the ski community and authorities hope to gain a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the collision.
The JHMR urges all skiers to prioritize safety and respect for others while enjoying the sport.