On Sunday, January 11, 2026, at approximately 2pm, a party of two snowmobilers was involved in a fatal avalanche accident in LaBarge Creek, about one mile south of the Commissary Ridge weather station. One rider rode on a 38 degree slope over a creek bed while his partner rode nearby. The rider triggered a weak layer approximately two feet below the surface. The resulting avalanche slid into the creekbed and buried the rider 2-3 feet deep. His partner noticed no engine noises and returned to find an avalanche had occurred. He began companion rescue efforts and began CPR upon finding his partner buried beside his snowmobile on flat ground at the base of the slope. The rider had deployed his airbag in the slide but the short distance the avalanche fell (~60 feet) allowed no time for the airbag to lift him to the surface. The avalanche (SS-AMu-D2R3-O) failed on a layer of surface hoar that had developed in this moist, cold, wind sheltered spot near the creek. Find more information about this avalanche here and a video here.
BTAC forecasters extend their deepest condolences to family, friends and others affected by this tragedy. Forecast staff will produce a more detailed report as more information becomes available. Thanks to Lincoln County Sheriff’s office and especially Star Valley SAR for providing details about the accident.