Australian Snowboarder Dies Following Backpack Entanglement on Chairlift at Nagano Resort
Ella Day Brooke passed away on Sunday following a severe accident at a popular ski destination in central Japan, the 22-year-old Australian snowboarder suffered fatal injuries when her gear became caught on a lift. Authorities confirmed she died in the hospital two days after the incident occurred in Otari village.
Recent Accidents Raise Safety Questions Across Japanese Ski Areas
This tragedy marks the latest in a series of serious incidents involving winter sports in the region, Japan has seen multiple accidents in recent months including a fatality involving a young child on an escalator. Resorts operate under strict safety codes established by the Japan Association for Skiing Safety, these rules emphasize personal responsibility for riders. The influx of international tourists has increased pressure on local infrastructure, officials are now examining how equipment guidelines are communicated to visitors. Previous incidents in Nagano Prefecture have prompted reviews of safety protocols, the industry faces challenges in balancing tourism growth with strict operational standards.
Police Investigate Gear Entanglement on Tsugaike Mountain Summit Lift
Investigators report that the accident happened near the top of the Tsuga No. 2 Pair Lift, Ms. Brooke attempted to get off the seat when her backpack's waist belt caught on the chair structure. The chest strap held the bag to her body, this caused her to be dragged and suspended in the air as the lift moved forward. Operators executed an emergency stop, rescue crews administered first aid immediately but found the victim in cardiac arrest.
She was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition, medical staff pronounced her dead on February 1. Another passenger on the same lift escaped the ordeal without physical injury, police are currently reviewing surveillance footage to determine exactly how the entanglement occurred. The investigation will focus on whether the backpack was worn correctly according to resort guidelines, early reports suggest the waist buckle was the primary point of failure.
Resort Operator Cooperates With Authorities Amid Review of Protocols
The Tsugaike Mountain Resort has pledged full cooperation with the Omachi Police Station, investigators are currently analyzing the machinery involved to ensure it met regulatory standards. This event is expected to trigger a wider review of lift safety procedures regarding loose items like backpacks, tourism officials worry this could impact the reputation of the region. Safety experts warn that strict adherence to equipment rules is vital for preventing similar occurrences, the resort may implement new checks for skiers carrying bags.
The Australian government is providing consular support to the grieving family during this difficult time, resort management is expected to release further statements regarding operational changes in the coming days.
