Skier dies in Whiteface Mountain accident

Autopsy reveals blunt force trauma as cause of death

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A 44-year-old man from Atlanta, Georgia died in a skiing accident at Whiteface Mountain in New York last week. An autopsy determined the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the chest.

Why it matters

Skiing accidents, especially those resulting in fatalities, are tragic events that raise concerns about mountain safety and the need for skiers to exercise caution on the slopes. This incident highlights the risks inherent in winter sports and the importance of proper safety protocols.

The details

Michael Vacek Jr. was reported missing by friends he was skiing with at Whiteface Mountain. A few hours later, his body was found near the tree line along the Upper-Lower Skyward Trail. He was pronounced dead at the scene, and an autopsy determined the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the chest.

  • The incident occurred last week at Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington, New York.

The players

Michael Vacek Jr.

A 44-year-old man from Atlanta, Georgia who died in a skiing accident at Whiteface Mountain.

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The takeaway

This tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks in winter sports and the importance of skiers exercising caution and following safety protocols to prevent such devastating outcomes.