Father of 3, Who Was ‘Avid’ Skier, Died After He ‘Slid’ Off an Icy Chairlift and Fell 25 Feet at a Ski Resort: Lawsuit

A tragic incident unfolded at a ski resort in Colorado when John Perucco, a father of three, lost his life after falling 25 feet from a chairlift. The lawsuit filed by Perucco’s wife revealed that the accident occurred at the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Perucco, described as a skilled skier with 46 years of experience, was visiting the resort with a friend on the morning of March 17, 2023. The lawsuit detailed that he boarded the Zendo chair lift but tragically slid off shortly after due to unsafe snow and ice accumulation on the chair’s seat.

Despite surviving the initial fall, Perucco sustained critical injuries and, sadly, succumbed to them while being transported to a nearby hospital. The lawsuit filed in Summit County on March 14 alleged that the ski resort attendant failed to notice the dangerous condition of the chair lift seat and allowed Perucco to board under hazardous circumstances. It further claimed that the resort neglected to inform the Colorado Passenger Tramway Safety Board promptly, hindering a thorough investigation into the cause of the fall.

While the ski resort conducted an internal investigation focusing on the chairlift’s malfunction, it reportedly concluded that the equipment was not to blame for the incident. The Breckenridge Ski Resort declined to comment on the ongoing litigation, and the Colorado Passenger Tramway Safety Board did not respond to requests for comment. The loss of John Perucco has left a void in his family, with an obituary describing him as a kind man who had a positive impact on many lives.

Perucco’s legacy includes imparting important life lessons to his three daughters, such as supporting ‘Da Bears’, cherishing animals, and fostering ambition. The devastating incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with winter sports and the crucial need for safety measures to prevent such tragic accidents. Despite the legal proceedings initiated by Perucco’s family, the emotional toll of his untimely passing can never be fully alleviated.

The wider community is left mourning the loss of a beloved father, husband, and experienced skier whose passion for the sport ultimately led to a heartbreaking tragedy. The aftermath of this incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and thorough checks on ski resort equipment to ensure the well-being of all visitors. As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the memory of John Perucco stands as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the need for accountability in maintaining safety standards at recreational facilities.