Aspiring Firefighter Dies in Snowboarding Accident 2 Days After Submitting Job Application at Department

Aspiring Firefighter, 25, Tragically Passes Away in Snowboarding Mishap at Ski Resort

A devastating incident unfolded at a California ski resort, claiming the life of a young man with aspirations of becoming a firefighter. Roman Lacayo, aged 25, met with a fatal snowboarding accident at Kirkwood Mountain Resort in Kirkwood on March 29. The Alpine County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Lacayo suffered severe head injuries while snowboarding and tragically succumbed to them less than an hour post the mishap. Though PEOPLE reached out to the sheriff’s office for further details, there was no immediate response.

Reflecting on the profound loss, Lacayo’s father, Nathan Clardy, expressed his heartbreak over not being present with his son during the tragic incident. He shared with NBC affiliate KCRA, “It’s heartbreaking because as a dad, I wasn’t there with him. I know there’s nothing I could have changed, but just not being there with him.” Lacayo, who had recently completed his fire academy training in Southern California, had even submitted a job application at a local fire department merely two days earlier.

Tragedy struck as Lacayo, accompanied by his long-time girlfriend and a group of friends, was snowboarding at the resort, situated approximately 100 miles east of Sacramento. Lacayo suffered a fall resulting in a head injury while on the slopes. The ski patrol located him on an intermediate trail and swiftly transported him to a clinic at the base area of the resort, where he was pronounced deceased at 12:49 p.m. local time. Ricky Newberry, the general manager and vice president of Kirkwood Mountain Resort, extended heartfelt sympathies to Lacayo’s family and friends during this challenging time.

In a bid to honour Lacayo’s memory and assist with funeral costs, a GoFundMe page was set up. Describing Lacayo as the “light” in his mother Christyana’s life, the page underscored his adventurous spirit, kind heart, and infectious smile that brought joy to all those around him. The outpouring of support from the community has been evident, with donations exceeding $45,000. Christyana expressed her gratitude for the support received and acknowledged the comfort drawn from the incredible community that has rallied around them during this time of immense pain.

Looking towards the future, Clardy emphasised the need for skiers and snowboarders to prioritise safety, specifically highlighting the importance of wearing helmets. He candidly shared with KCRA, “No parent plans on burying their child. I’m walking in the dark and we’re just figuring this out as we go.” Despite the unfathomable grief the Lacayo family is enduring, they are finding solace in the collective compassion and support extended to them during this period of profound loss.

This heart-wrenching incident serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks associated with snow sports and the crucial need for safety measures to be diligently adhered to. As the Lacayo family navigates through this deeply distressing time, their community stands in solidarity, offering unwavering support and comfort to help them cope with the profound loss of a promising young life.