Fatal Skiing Accident at Mammoth Mountain: Robert Carroll Identified

Robert Carroll, a 40-year-old skier from California, died following a severe fall while skiing on the Dropout Chute 2 at Mammoth Mountain. The incident occurred on February 4, 2026, marking the fourth skiing fatality at the resort this winter season. The Mono County Sheriff’s Department confirmed Carroll's identity after the accident.

New York PostSkier Dies Attempting Run Down Mammoth’s ‘Dropout Chute 2’

Carroll was skiing on Dropout Chute 2, a trail known for its steepness and difficulty, when he lost control. Eyewitness accounts shared on Reddit described the fall as harrowing, noting that Carroll appeared to lose both skis near the top of the run and subsequently hit his head on a rock. He then slid unconscious for approximately 150 yards down the slope, leaving a blood trail as another skier attempted to reach him.

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Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol received the emergency call at around 1:00 p.m. and arrived on the scene shortly thereafter. Despite immediate life-saving efforts and transport to Mammoth Hospital, Carroll was pronounced dead. The resort stated that further details would be provided by the Mono County Sheriff/Coroner, and notification of next of kin was still pending.

Skier Dies Attempting Run Down Mammoth’s ‘Dropout Chute 2’

Carroll's death is part of a concerning trend at Mammoth Mountain, which has seen four fatalities this winter alone. Previous incidents included a snowboarder who died from a head injury in January and two other skiers who lost their lives in separate accidents in December and January. The resort is known for its challenging terrain, receiving approximately 400 inches of snow annually, which can contribute to hazardous conditions.

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Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol released a statement regarding the incident, emphasizing their rapid response and the efforts made to save Carroll. They noted, “Despite these efforts, we are informed the guest passed away.” The resort has not provided additional comments on the recent fatalities but has acknowledged the risks associated with skiing on expert-level runs.

Skier Dies Attempting Run Down Mammoth’s ‘Dropout Chute 2’

Ski safety advocates have raised concerns about the dangers of expert-only trails like Dropout Chute 2, suggesting that more stringent safety measures and clearer warnings could help prevent such tragedies. Critics argue that the allure of challenging runs may lead less experienced skiers to attempt them, increasing the risk of accidents.

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While eyewitness accounts provide a detailed narrative of Carroll's fall, there are discrepancies regarding the exact circumstances leading to the accident. Some reports suggest that Carroll was skiing with a companion, while others focus solely on the fall itself. Additionally, the total number of fatalities at Mammoth this season varies slightly among different sources, highlighting the need for consistent reporting.

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• “Looked like he lost skis high in deep moguls on the chutes – maybe 15 yards from drop.” — Eyewitness on Reddit

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• “Despite these efforts, we are informed the guest passed away.” — Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol Statement

Skier Dies Attempting Run Down Mammoth’s ‘Dropout Chute 2’

The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with skiing, particularly on challenging terrain, and underscores the importance of safety awareness on the slopes.

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