Montana Snowboarder Dies After Falling From Malfunctioning Chairlift

Jeffrey Zinne, 37, fell from Red Lodge Mountain’s Triple Chairlift during high winds, leading to an ongoing investigation into the mechanical failure.

Jeffrey Zinne, a 37-year-old snowboarder and father, fell from the Triple Chairlift at Red Lodge Mountain on Monday and later died from his injuries at a hospital on Wednesday.
The chairlift experienced a mechanical malfunction at the time of the accident, prompting the evacuation of over 100 stranded skiers using rope systems.
High winds, with gusts exceeding 50 mph, were recorded in the area during the incident, and weather conditions are part of the ongoing investigation.
Red Lodge Mountain has temporarily closed the Triple Chairlift for safety assessments and stated that it will reopen only after ensuring its safe operation.
Zinne, remembered as a devoted husband and father, was honored through organ donation, and a fundraiser has raised significant support for his grieving family.