New York Police Investigating Skier Death at State's Largest Resort

The New York State Police Department responded to a call from Whiteface Mountain yesterday, February 4, 2026.

According to a press release, an investigation determined that Michael E. Vacek Jr., age 44, of Atlanta, Georgia, was found unresponsive in a tree line along the Upper/Lower Skyward Trail, hours after his ski party reported him missing.

Life-saving measures were continued as Vacek was transported to a medical building. He was later pronounced deceased at the scene.

The investigation remains ongoing, according to the New York State Police Department.