Avalanche at Mt. Bailey Claims Life of Bend Man

DIAMOND LAKE, Ore. - On Thursday, March 13, 2025, a group of skiers experienced an avalanche incident while skiing on the north/northwest side of Mt. Bailey within the motorized closure area. The group, the fourth of the day to enjoy cat skiing at Mt. Bailey, a service through Diamond Lake Resort, encountered unforeseen challenges despite prior avalanche test digs earlier in the day. The avalanche occurred at approximately 3:45 PM, trapping one member of the party under the snow, identified as 50-year-old Brian Thomas Roberts of Bend, Oregon. Despite efforts by fellow party members who swiftly dug him out, and attempted lifesaving efforts by two nurses on the scene, Roberts succumbed to his injuries in the remote location. The group of skiers managed to navigate approximately two miles to the nearest snowmobile trail, where they were met by responders and Diamond Lake Resort staff. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) assessed others with the ski party who were injured at Three Lakes Snow Park. One additional member of the group sustained a laceration or puncture injury during the avalanche, believed to be caused by a branch or ski pole, but declined ambulance transport. Responding to the incident were Diamond Lake Resort employees, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue, US Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers, and Umpqua Valley Ambulance. The Sheriff’s Office also received support from the Oregon Department of Emergency Management Search and Rescue Coordinator. Via DCSO