No charges to be filed in connection with Teton Pass avalanche

The Teton County, Wyoming Sheriff’s Office has determined there is not sufficient evidence to prove skiers caused an avalanche on Teton Pass on the night of December 15.

The avalanche happened on the “Twin Slides” slide path at around 4:46 p.m. It crossed the highway and temporarily trapped a motorist in his vehicle. The motorist was treated for minor injuries.

Sheriff’s deputies initiated an investigation when it was discovered the slide may have been triggered by skiers.

Investigators said that if the avalanche was human triggered in high avalanche danger conditions, above a highway with innocent travelers, it might constitute a crime.

Because insufficient evidence exists, investigators said no criminal charges would be filed in the case.