Terrifying photo of red-faced skier who'd just 'attacked coach' at upmarket Colorado resort
A ski instructor was repeatedly assaulted by an angry mountain visitor at an upmarket Colorado resort, police said.
The incident took place at Steamboat Ski Resort in Steamboat Springs on January 4.
Chaos unfolded after a male skier battered a coach who was conducting a training session on the slope, according to the victim.
The coach said he was confronted by the man as he was teaching kids on a ski jump and that he tried to remain calm.
Things escalated and the angry skier allegedly traveled down and grabbed the instructor before repeatedly punching him in the head.
Steamboat Springs police have now released a picture of the red-faced suspect after the incident was caught on camera.
The victim was left with potentially serious injuries including a concussion, according to the police who said the suspect is still at large.
'This is unacceptable and dangerous behavior in an area many kids and families frequently enjoy,' Sgt. Evan Noble told KDVR.
Police have released this photo of a suspect who is accused of assaulting a Colorado ski instructor
The incident took place at Steamboat Ski Resort in Steamboat Springs on January 4
'SSPD wants to acknowledge the calm behavior of the ski coach, who attempted to calm the situation and remove himself and his group from the area.'
Police have not released any further details about the victim.
They said they have received several tips about the suspect but so far he has not been located.
Anyone who may have witnessed the alleged attack or who knows the whereabouts of the suspect is asked to contact Detective Michael Buccino or the force by calling either 970-879-4344 or 970-879-1144.
Steamboat Springs is renowned for its world-famous snow, which it has trademarked as 'champagne powder'.
The self-described 'cowboy ski resort' has been known primarily as a playground for the elites where aspiring winter Olympians come to train.
Daily lift passes cost up to $300, making it one of the most expensive resorts in the country.
The formerly quaint town has also become a vacation rental hot-spot, where the average price of a single-family home has ballooned to $1.8million since 2020
Steamboat Springs is renowned for its world-famous snow, which it has trademarked as 'champagne powder'
The stark divide between the locals to the resort and the well-heeled out-of-towners has led to some tensions in the area even after a $200 million development boost.
Last month, the resort issued a warning after a skier triggered an avalanche in closed terrain.
The avalanche required a 'significant' response from ski patrol, who were dispatched to ensure no other skiers or snowboarders were caught in the slide.
The skier involved in the avalanche has not been identified, and it is unclear whether the resort will issue any penalties.
However, the resort warned that violating closed trail policies could result in the loss of ski privileges.
