A tragic incident unfolded in Oregon as a couple lost their lives in a devastating avalanche while backcountry skiing. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Terance Olaf Skjersaa, 57, and Susan Renee Skjersaa, 52, both from Bend, Oregon, were fatally buried in the avalanche between the Bend Watershed and Broken Top Mountain. This area is commonly referred to as Happy Valley.
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The authorities were made aware of the avalanche report on February 17, triggering a swift response. Sergeant Jason Wall from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office detailed that friends of the couple initiated the search on Monday evening and tragically discovered their bodies just before midnight. The avalanche is believed to have taken place several hours before the victims were found, highlighting the challenges of avalanche search and rescue operations in remote mountainous terrain.
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team, alongside other assisting agencies such as the Central Oregon Avalanche Center and United States Forest Service, worked tirelessly to recover the bodies of the deceased couple. The recovery efforts were marked by the treacherous conditions and the inherent risks associated with avalanche-prone areas.
In a somber statement following the incident, Sheriff Kent van der Kamp expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of the couple. He highlighted the impact the Skjersaas had within the community and underscored their enduring legacy. The sheriff extended heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, acknowledging the profound grief and shock reverberating through Central Oregon.
The Central Oregon Avalanche Center also offered their condolences, recognizing the couple’s passion for the outdoors and their enduring presence in Central Oregon. The tragic loss serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of avalanches and the importance of exercising caution and vigilance when engaging in backcountry activities, especially in avalanche-prone regions.
As the community mourns this devastating loss, the memories of Terance and Susan Skjersaa will endure, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew and cherished them. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with exploring the beauty of the natural world, underscoring the need for preparedness and awareness when venturing into wilderness areas, particularly during winter months when avalanche risks are heightened.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and partnering agencies continue to emphasize the importance of safety measures and vigilance when recreating in mountainous regions. The loss of the Skjersaas serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the unforgiving power of nature, prompting reflection and solemn remembrance within the community and beyond.