Skier dies after striking a tree on Wachusett Mountain in Massachusetts, officials say

WORCESTER, Mass. – A skier died after striking a tree on a mountain trail in Massachusetts Monday morning.

The male skier, 67, was unresponsive when found by a passing skier on an advanced trail on the Wachusett Mountain at about 9:30 a.m., according to authorities.

Members of the mountain ski patrol responded to the incident, bringing the man to the bottom of the mountain, where local emergency crews were waiting.

It was soon determined he had passed away, 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.”

Weather updates: Chilly start to spring as millions under freeze warnings and watches

The identity of the skier was not released by authorities.

The death is being investigated by the Worcester District Attorney’s Office and Princeton, Massachusetts police.

The death comes a day after a skier in Colorado was killed in an avalanche, and a week after two teenagers were rescued when they got lost in the snow-heavy backside of Wachusett Mountain.

Tuesday evening, the friends went off the designated area while at the top of the summit, soon losing track of direction after hours of walking.

They were later located by the Princeton Fire Department, huddling for warmth on the mountain's backside.

The teens were unharmed and returned home that same night.

More coverage from USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Skier killed in tree collision on Wachusett Mountain in Massachusetts