Dad, 37, plummets to his death after chairlift malfunction at Montana ski resort

Tragic Incident on the Slopes: A Devastating Loss for a Montana Family

The slopes of Red Lodge Mountain in Montana turned into a scene of unimaginable tragedy when 37-year-old Jeff Zinne, a loving father and husband, lost his life in a horrific accident. On a day meant for enjoyment and making memories with his family through snowboarding, Jeff’s life was cut short when he fell from a chairlift due to a mechanical malfunction. This heartbreaking incident has left his wife, Meghan, and their young son, who affectionately called him “Dada guy,” in a state of unimaginable grief. The tight-knit community is also mourning the loss of a man known for his infectious laughter, kind-hearted nature, and selfless dedication to those around him.

The Incident: A Mechanical Failure with Fatal Consequences

Jeff Zinne was riding alone on the Triple Lift line at Red Lodge Mountain when the unthinkable happened. A mechanical issue caused him to plummet from the chairlift, resulting in fatal injuries. The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident, though the exact cause of the malfunction remains under investigation. It is unclear how far Jeff fell or what specific issues led to the tragic accident. The resort had earlier closed some lift lines due to gusty winds reaching up to 50 mph, but it is unknown if this played a role in the mechanical failure. Jeff was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a family that loved him deeply.

The incident also led to a massive evacuation effort, as the chairlift was halted, stranding over 100 people in the air. Ski patrol units conducted a painstaking rescue operation, lowering each stranded individual to safety one by one using a rope system. The Triple Chairlift, which has been in operation since 1983 and was reportedly up to safety standards with daily inspections, will remain closed until the investigation is complete and the issue is resolved.

A Loving Father and Husband: Remembering Jeff Zinne

Jeff Zinne was more than just a statistic or a name in the news. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Meghan, and a loving father to their 2-year-old son, who lovingly referred to him as “Dada guy.” Together, Jeff and Meghan ran a local shipping business, a testament to their partnership and dedication to building a life together. Jeff’s legacy is one of kindness, joy, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends. Those who knew him describe him as a man who always put others first, whether it was supporting his family, being there for his friends, or spreading joy to everyone he met. His passion for life was contagious, and his absence has left a void that cannot be filled.

A GoFundMe page established for Jeff’s family captures the essence of who he was: “His passion for life, infectious laughter, and kind-hearted nature touched everyone around him.” It is a fitting tribute to a man who touched so many lives in such a positive way. The page also highlights his selflessness, noting that he was always there for those in need, whether it was his family, friends, or even strangers. Jeff’s story is one of love, joy, and the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others.

A Rare but Heartbreaking Accident: Understanding the Risks

While ski lift accidents are rare, they are devastating when they occur. According to the National Ski Areas Association, there have been only 35 fatal incidents involving ski lifts in the United States between 1956 and 2024. Out of these, 16 were caused by mechanical issues. Jeff’s tragic fall is a stark reminder of the risks associated with winter sports, even though they are considered relatively safe. The last reported lift-related death before this incident occurred in 2020 at Colorado’s Vail resort, where a man was asphyxiated by a piece of clothing that became entangled in the lift. These incidents, though rare, highlight the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards and constant vigilance in ensuring the well-being of skiers and snowboarders.

A Community in Mourning: Supporting the Zinne Family

As the investigation into Jeff’s death continues, the community is coming together to support his family in their time of grief. The loss of such a vibrant and loving individual has sent shockwaves through the small town, where Jeff was known and loved by many. Friends, acquaintances, and even strangers have been moved by his story, and the GoFundMe page set up to support Meghan and their young son has seen an outpouring of donations and heartfelt messages. The page serves as a testament to the impact Jeff had on so many lives and as a way to honor his memory. As the family navigates this unimaginable tragedy, the support of their community will be a source of strength and comfort.

Conclusion: Remembering Jeff Zinne and the Importance of Safety

Jeff Zinne’s untimely death is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of prioritizing safety in all aspects of our lives. While incidents like this are rare, they underscore the need for constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols, particularly in industries that involve potentially dangerous equipment. As the investigation into the causes of this tragic accident continues, it is our hope that it will provide answers and prevent similar incidents in the future. For now, we remember Jeff as a loving father, husband, and friend whose infectious laughter and kind-hearted nature touched the lives of everyone he met. His legacy will live on through his family and the countless people he inspired with his passion for life. Rest in peace, Jeff Zinne.