MONTPELIER, Idaho — The Bear Lake County Sheriff's Office is currently investigating the death of a man who died in the Sherman Peak area of Southeastern Idaho on Saturday.
The victim of the avalanche was identified by Search and Rescue units from Bear Lake County, Caribou County and Franklin County as Allen Foss, 48, of Preston.
Foss's death marks the 30th avalanche fatality in the United States since the beginning of 2021.
Bear Lake County Sheriff's says they were notified Saturday morning of the Sherman Peak avalanche and that they had received information about an individual who was buried by the avalanche.
After Search and Rescue responded to the area, it was verified that Foss had been buried under a large amount of snow in the avalanche field, according to the press release. They were able to locate Foss's body using a search line with snow probes. Bear Lake County Sheriff's Office says Foss had succumbed to his injuries sustained in the avalanche slide and was reported deceased when located. Search and Rescue was able to retrieve Foss's body and transport it off Sherman Peak.
We at Idaho News 6 would like to emphasize that avalanche danger is considerable in parts of Idaho's back-country right now. Avalanches are at their peak from December to March and can be triggered by recreators, new snowfall and wind. Before heading out it's important to know your local avalanche risk, carry safety equipment, rescue gear, and make sure you're not alone.
Visit the National Avalanche Center for an updated look at current dangers.
