Skier Found Dead on The Grizz at Keystone

The ski community is mourning today following a tragic incident at Keystone Resort. On Wednesday, January 7, 2026, a skier was found unresponsive on The Grizz, a challenging black diamond run located in the resort's Outback territory. The individual has since been identified as 59-year-old Eric Baltz of Westminster, Colorado.

At approximately 12:20 p.m., other guests on the mountain discovered Baltz and immediately began performing CPR while calling for emergency assistance. Keystone Ski Patrol arrived shortly after and provided advanced life-saving measures at the scene.

Baltz was transported to a helicopter landing zone and airlifted by Flight for Life to CommonSpirit St. Anthony Summit Hospital. Despite the extensive efforts of first responders and medical staff, he was later pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed that Baltz was wearing a helmet at the time he was found.

The Summit County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the death. While The Grizz is an advanced, un-groomed run, officials have not yet released specific details regarding whether a collision or a medical event took place. The Summit County Coroner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death.

"Our hearts go out to the family and friends affected by this tragic loss," said Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons in a statement following the event.

The mountains offer the ultimate playground, but they also demand our utmost respect. Whether you are exploring the steep trees of the Outback or revisiting classic lines safety and situational awareness are paramount. As we wait for further details, this serves as a sobering reminder to always look out for one another on the slopes.