A devastating incident at Tsugaike Kogen Mountain Resort in Japan’s Nagano Prefecture has resulted in the death of a 22-year-old Australian woman following a catastrophic ski lift malfunction. The tragedy occurred around 9:00 AM local time on Friday when the victim’s backpack became entangled in the chairlift mechanism during disembarkation.
According to official statements from resort management, an unfastened buckle on the woman’s backpack hooked onto the chair while the chest strap remained secured, creating a dangerous entanglement that suspended her mid-air. The immediate trauma triggered a cardiac arrest, with emergency responders unable to revive her despite rapid medical intervention.
Tsuneo Kubo, Chief Executive of Tsugaike Mountain Resort, issued a profound apology expressing his “deepest condolences to the bereaved family” while confirming a comprehensive investigation has been launched in coordination with local authorities. The resort’s emergency protocols were activated when an attendant triggered the emergency stop mechanism, followed by immediate first aid administration and ambulance transportation to a nearby medical facility.
The incident occurred on the Tsuga No. 2 Pair Lift, a two-person chairlift that serves as a primary access point to the resort’s extensive skiing terrain. Japanese police have initiated a thorough examination of the equipment and are interviewing resort staff as part of their official inquiry into the mechanical failure and safety procedures.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed the tragic death of their citizen and is providing consular support to the grieving family. The popular Hakuba Valley resort, renowned among international visitors for its extensive winter sports facilities, has pledged to implement enhanced safety measures and conduct a complete review of all lift operations to prevent future tragedies.