Regulators cite Wolf Creek after avalanche death

Federal workplace regulators have cited southwestern Colorado’s Wolf Creek Ski Area after an employee died during avalanche training held outside of the resort’s boundaries.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said that the ski area lacked a way for employees to make emergency contact with the base or to summon first responders on March 4, the day of the accident. The agency also said the resort failed to evaluate the area for avalanche risks before allowing employees to be there.

Ski patrol member Colin Drew Sutton died in an avalanche near Conejos Peak, about 15 miles from the resort. Patrollers had been flown to the area for avalanche training.

OSHA said Tuesday Wolf Creek has contested the citations and is working with the agency.