December 30, 2025 – Mono County Sheriff's Office officials report the passing of ski patroller Cole Murphy who was involved in a tragic avalanche that occurred early Friday morning at Mammoth Mountain.

Mono County Sheriff's Office officials released the following: Please hold Cole’s family, friends, and coworkers close in your heart. We consider our ski patrollers to be first responders, and therefore family. We grieve his loss and thank him for his service. Rest easy, Cole.

Mammoth Mountain officials released the following: (December 28, 2025 - 4:00 P.M.) With profound sorrow, Mammoth Mountain confirms that the Ski Patroller who was critically injured and hospitalized Friday has died from his injuries. Cole Murphy, 30, was an experienced patroller with a deep passion for the mountains and love for his career.

We have included a message and photo from Cole’s family below.

A Message from the Family: With hearts that are aching and full of love, we share the passing of our beloved son, Cole Murphy, who was involved in a tragic accident at Mammoth Mountain. He was just 30 years old. In these tender days, he is held close by the family and friends who cherished him deeply. Cole moved through the world with kindness, intention, and a wholehearted devotion to the life he chose.

The mountain was where Cole felt most alive. It was his place of purpose, his community, and his second home. Serving on ski patrol wasn't just a role for him—it was a calling. To his ski patrol family, the ones who worked beside him, had confidence in him, and shared a bond shaped by snow, service, and unwavering camaraderie: thank you for loving him as one of your own. That brotherhood meant more to him than words can ever express. At the center of Cole's heart was Hayley—his partner, his joy, his steady place in the world. Their love was built on adventure, laughter, and a connection that ran deep. She is forever a part of who he was, and always will be. Cole also held his family close, meeting life with an easy smile, a generous spirit, and a warmth that drew people in wherever he went.

We find ourselves without the right words, but never without love. We are profoundly grateful for the compassion, tenderness, and support that have surrounded our family during this unimaginable time. As we begin to navigate the path ahead, we carry with us the memories, the love, and the bright, enduring light that Cole brought into all of our lives.

(Video) Ski patroller Cole Murphy dies after Mammoth Mountain avalanche - CBS 8 San Diego

Source: Mono County Sheriff's Office