Deadly Avalanche Strikes Backcountry Skiers in Washington

Two killed, two injured in Longs Pass avalanche accident

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Four experienced backcountry skiers were caught in an avalanche at Longs Pass in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington, resulting in the deaths of Paul Markoff and Erik Henne. Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie survived the incident, with Leslie sustaining a knee injury. The group had checked avalanche forecasts and conducted safety precautions, but the unpredictable mountain conditions led to the tragic event.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the inherent risks and unpredictability of backcountry skiing, even for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. It underscores the importance of proper preparation, equipment, and decision-making when venturing into remote, avalanche-prone areas. The collaboration between the survivors and the Northwest Avalanche Center to produce a detailed report aims to educate others and potentially prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The details

On January 9, the group of four friends was skiing at Longs Pass when a hard slab avalanche occurred, catching and carrying all four individuals. Markoff was fully buried and did not survive, while Henne was almost completely buried and also died. Laing and Leslie were partially buried but able to free themselves, though Leslie sustained a torn ACL. The group had checked avalanche forecasts, conducted safety checks, and dug a snow pit, but the conditions proved unpredictable. Leslie's satellite communication device allowed him to send an SOS, leading to the search and rescue operation.

  • On January 9, the avalanche incident occurred at Longs Pass.
  • On January 8, the group checked the avalanche forecast for the area, which indicated moderate to considerable danger.
  • On January 9, the group conducted a snow profile at approximately 5,600 feet and found no major concerns.
  • At around 3:40 pm on January 9, the avalanche was triggered during the group's third ski run of the day.
  • Around 4:01 pm on January 9, Leslie sent an SOS message via his Garmin InReach device.

The players

Paul Markoff

A 38-year-old backcountry skier from North Bend, Washington, who died in the avalanche.

Erik Henne

A 43-year-old backcountry skier from Snoqualmie Pass, Washington, who also died in the avalanche.

Ian Laing

A 47-year-old backcountry skier from Alaska who survived the avalanche.

Patrick Leslie

A 47-year-old backcountry skier from Washington who survived the avalanche, sustaining a torn ACL.

Dallas Glass

The deputy director of the Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC).

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What they’re saying

“This is an unbearable tragedy for the victims and their family, and we're solely focused on supporting them right now.”

— Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie (The Seattle Times)

“Ultimately, we can hopefully take those learning outcomes and put them into our own travel in the backcountry so we can all be safer.”

— Dallas Glass, Deputy Director, Northwest Avalanche Center (sfgate.com)

What’s next

The Northwest Avalanche Center will continue to analyze the incident and provide educational resources to help backcountry skiers and snowboarders improve their safety practices.

The takeaway

This tragic event underscores the inherent risks of backcountry skiing, even for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of thorough preparation, proper equipment, and sound decision-making when venturing into remote, avalanche-prone areas. The collaboration between the survivors and the Northwest Avalanche Center aims to share valuable lessons that could help prevent similar accidents in the future.