Overview
- The incident occurred on Donaldson Peak in Idaho's Lost River Range, where Dr. O'Connor and his partner were climbing down to their ski route.
- Dr. O'Connor, an experienced backcountry skier, inadvertently set off a small avalanche that led to a larger, fatal slide.
- His skiing partner used a satellite communication device to summon help and located him using a rescue transceiver and probe pole.
- Despite efforts to rescue him, including CPR performed by his partner, Dr. O'Connor did not survive.
- Dr. O'Connor was recognized for his role during the early COVID-19 pandemic and his community involvement in Idaho.