Shrewsbury skier killed in crash at Wachusett Mountain ID'd
The 67-year-old man who died at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area after striking a tree Monday morning has been identified as John Lapato by authorities.
Lapato, a resident of Shrewsbury, was a retired engineer who had worked at Raytheon Technologies for more than 30 years, according to his obituary. He was born in Brooklyn, New York.
Skiing was one of his hobbies, as well as handball, kayaking and bicycling.
Lapato died at one of Wachusett Mountain's advanced trails Monday.
He was found unconscious by a skier who was passing by around 9:30 a.m., a time when authorities were alerted.
The mountain's Ski Patrol moved Lapato to the bottom of the mountain, followed by emergency crews.
It was soon determined he had died, authorities said.
“The entire Wachusett family is grieving this tragic loss,” read a statement by Wachusett Mountain Ski Area. “All of our thoughts are with the skier’s family and friends.”
The death was investigated by the Worcester District Attorney’s Office, who identified Lapato Wednesday.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Shrewsbury skier in fatal crash at Wachusett Mountain ID'd
