BONNEVILLE COUNTY, Idaho — UPDATE: The body of 35-year-old Tommy Hawkins of Utah was recovered late Saturday afternoon.
Hawkins fell victim to an avalanche Friday evening. Officials say the conditions in the area were "extremely rough and steep" and there was heavy fog as well.
Hawkins was riding with 2 other male adults when the avalanche was triggered. He was able to deploy and avalanche bag and had a beacon activated, but police say he didn't survive the slide.
The two riders attempted CPR and lifesaving measures, but to no avail. They were unable to take his body out of the area at that time and conditions were unsafe for rescue personnel to continue their rescue efforts until this morning.
Police say snowmobilers and back country users should always prepare for winter and avalanche emergencies with proper safety gear and equipment.
Original Story: Recovery efforts are underway in Bonneville County, after an adult man was overcome by an avalanche Friday evening on the Victor side of Fog Mountain.
On January 25th at approximately 6:12pm, emergency search and rescue personnel from Bonneville and Teton County responded to the Cabin Creek area to a report of an avalanche.
Officials say at least three adult riders were on snowmobiles in that area where the avalanche occurred.
One of the riders, an adult male, was overcome by the slide and unable to get out, but two others were able to summon help.
Efforts to recover the victim resumed Saturday and no further information was released.
"The Bonneville County Sheriff's Office reminds back country travelers and recreators that avalanche conditions are very high right now and we urge you to use extreme caution," a press release stated. "Always prepare for avalanche and winter emergencies and survival before you go and make safety a priority. Conditions such as these make it very dangerous for deputies and emergency personnel to rescue people in these areas. A moment of preparation or caution before you proceed can mean the difference between life or death."
