A bold but ill-fated endeavor by a 21-year-old skier to jump across Highway 40 near the summit of Berthoud Pass in Colorado ended in tragedy on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Grand County Sheriff’s Office. The young man, known for his passion for skiing, attempted a high-risk stunt that proved fatal.
The incident occurred around 3:00 PM when the skier, attempting to clear the entire width of the highway, tragically misjudged the necessary speed and distance, leading to a severe crash on the highway pavement. Despite wearing a helmet and protective gear, the impact was catastrophic.
A bystander who witnessed the accident immediately administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and reported that the skier was “unconscious and not breathing” at the scene. Sadly, by the time emergency responders arrived, they could only confirm his death.
Authorities have temporarily withheld the name of the deceased pending official processes, but he has been publicly identified by friends and family as Dallas LeBeau, a well-known figure within the local skiing community. The Grand County Coroner’s Office was also present at the scene, and the investigation caused temporary traffic delays in both directions on Highway 40 as law enforcement worked to preserve the scene and maintain the privacy of the victim.
Dallas LeBeau was remembered fondly on a GoFundMe page set up in his memory, describing him as “one of the most joyful and kind people you could ever meet.” A lifelong skier, LeBeau’s love for the sport was evident from as young as two years old, and he was always keen to encourage and uplift others in his community.
Following the news of LeBeau’s passing, the Winter Park & Fraser Chamber of Commerce released a statement expressing deep sorrow and extending condolences to his family and friends. The chamber highlighted the profound impact of the loss on the community and encouraged those grieving to seek support during this difficult time.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with extreme sports, particularly those involving high-risk maneuvers in uncontrolled environments. It underscores the importance of safety and caution in pursuit of adrenaline and adventure. As the community mourns the loss of a young, vibrant life, discussions about safety measures in extreme sports are likely to be at the forefront of community and sporting conversations. The hope is that this painful event will lead to increased awareness and preventive strategies to protect enthusiastic young athletes in their pursuit of adventure.
