Drew Youngquist Death and Obituary – On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, a tragic incident at Perisher Ski Resort in New South Wales, Australia, claimed the life of 22-year-old snowboarder Drew Youngquist, a U.S. citizen. The accident occurred in the resort’s Front Valley terrain park, an area renowned for its advanced features and challenging jumps.
Authorities report that the incident unfolded at approximately 2:30 p.m. Emergency crews—including Perisher Ski Patrol, NSW Ambulance paramedics, and officers from the New South Wales Police—responded swiftly after receiving calls for urgent assistance. Despite immediate intervention and extensive efforts to revive him, Youngquist was pronounced dead at the scene.
Youngquist was in Australia working with an outdoor education company at the time of the accident. He was widely regarded as a skilled and experienced skier and snowboarder, as well as a trained first responder. Friends and colleagues described him as adventurous, dedicated to outdoor pursuits, and deeply committed to safety in alpine environments—making the sudden and fatal nature of this accident all the more devastating.
The Front Valley terrain park, where the accident occurred, is specifically designed for advanced riders and includes large jumps, rails, and other high-difficulty features. Such parks, while offering thrilling opportunities for skilled athletes, also present inherent risks, particularly when navigating complex aerial maneuvers at speed. Authorities have not yet released specific details regarding the mechanics of Youngquist’s fall or whether equipment, weather, or other factors may have contributed.
Perisher Ski Resort and its parent company, Vail Resorts, issued a public statement expressing their condolences to Youngquist’s family, friends, and the broader snow sports community. The statement also acknowledged the emotional toll on staff, guests, and emergency responders involved in the incident, noting that support services have been made available.
The New South Wales Police have launched a formal investigation into the accident. A report will be prepared for the coroner, who will determine the exact cause of death and assess any contributing factors. It remains unclear whether additional safety measures will be considered for the terrain park following the incident.
This tragedy underscores the risks inherent in high-performance snow sports. While advanced terrain parks attract skilled riders seeking challenge and progression, accidents—even among experienced athletes—can have severe consequences. Experts stress the importance of proper preparation, the use of protective equipment, and adherence to safety guidelines, though these measures cannot entirely eliminate danger.
The loss of Drew Youngquist has deeply affected both the Australian and international snowboarding communities. Tributes have begun appearing on social media from friends, colleagues, and fellow riders, many of whom recall his enthusiasm, kindness, and passion for life on the slopes. As investigations continue, his death serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable and often unforgiving nature of mountain sports.
For now, Perisher Ski Resort continues normal operations but with heightened awareness of the fragility of life in the alpine environment. The snow sports world mourns the loss of a promising young athlete whose adventurous spirit and dedication to the outdoors left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
