California State Faults Mammoth Mountain Owners for the Death of Ski Patroller Claire Murphy
MONO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA (March 8, 2026) – A ski patroller identified as Claire Murphy has tragically died in an avalanche at Mammoth Mountain.
California state officials are saying that the accident took place on February 14, 2025. Claire Murphy was trying to open a ski area for visitors when she and a partner were both swept down a steep chute on the mountain.
Paramedics and a rescue team were called to the area to help the two victims. Claire Murphy died due to her injuries. Her partner was able to survive.
Now, California has fined Mammoth Mountain Ski Area LLC following the accident. They are saying that the company failed to provide necessary safeguards to help keep its staff safe.
A full investigation into the incident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability for Mammoth Mountain Accidents
Employers in California have a legal obligation to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. According to 29 U.S.C. § 654(a)(1), “each employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees.” Ski resorts should take a number of measures to protect workers from avalanches.
- Risk Assessment: Companies should conduct snowpack stability testing and use professional avalanche forecasting models.
- Terrain Management: Companies should use avalanche control systems when feasible to avoid putting people at risk.
- Ski Zones: Companies must ensure that they select appropriate safe zones for ski controllers.
When a worker is injured or killed in California, they or their surviving family members will typically have recourse through the workers’ compensation system. This is a no-fault insurance scheme designed to help injured workers. An injured worker or their surviving family members may also be able to pursue a third-party liability claim. A third-party liability claim may be possible if an entity separate from a worker’s employer contributed to an accident.
Steps to Take After Accidents at Mammoth Mountain
Many people are killed or seriously injured in an avalanche each year. According to the National Weather Service, “Avalanches kill more than 150 people worldwide each year. The National Weather Service provides current weather conditions and forecast information to regional avalanche forecast centers that in-turn issue avalanche forecasts.” Certain actions should be taken after any avalanche.
- Accident Records: All records related to avalanches should be carefully reviewed. This will include any work records and OSHA reports.
- Medical Records: Any medical records related to the accident should be collected and reviewed.
- Legal Review: The family of any person who died in an avalanche should seek an independent review by a legal team with ample experience in tort claims.
It can be difficult to know where to begin after any accident at a ski resort. Many people think of an avalanche as an unforeseeable, freak accident. But the fact of the matter is that many of these accidents where people are injured are totally preventable. They tend to be the result of clear safety lapses. The family of any person who died in an avalanche accident may be able to pursue some measure of accountability through a wrongful death claim.
Investigating Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort Accidents
We at Carrazco Law extend our deepest condolences to the family of Claire Murphy. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to OSHA. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to help prevent other tragedies like this.
Do you need more information about a Mammoth Mountain avalanche accident? Our team of accident investigators is here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any particular incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (800) 541-3244.
