PRELIMINARY: Two backcountry skiers were reported overdue on the evening of Saturday, December 19. The pair had planned to ski in an area locally known as the Battleship, southeast of Ophir Pass. In the dark from a helicopter, rescuers could see a large avalanche and ski tracks. The two skier were later found buried in the avalanche debris. San Juan County Search and Rescue and other agencies recovered the bodies on December 20.
Our sincere condolences to all the friends and family of the victims.