The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office has identified the Cut Bank man killed in a Feb. 25 avalanche near Marias Pass.
Francis Skierka, 23, and a friend were riding snow bikes five miles up Skyland Road when the avalanche occurred, according to Sheriff Chuck Curry.
The emergency call came in at about noon, Curry said, and authorities were notified that Skierka had been buried in the slide. Skierka’s companion was able to locate him quickly, but could not dig him out in time. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Curry said it appears the snow bikes triggered the avalanche. Snow bikes are similar to motorcycles, but have a ski and track instead of tires.
Skierka’s companion was checked for injuries and released.
North Valley Search and Rescue, US Forest Service, National Park Service, Glacier County, Flathead Emergency Aviation Resources, and the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office responded to the emergency call.
Avalanche conditions still remain high and it is recommended that individuals venturing into the backcountry use caution and carry necessary equipment and avoid avalanche-prone areas.