A 21-year-old skier was killed this week while attempting to jump the width of a road in Grand County, Colorado.
Authorities say the skier, identified as Dallas LeBeau, was "attempting to perform a high-risk stunt" but "unfortunately lacked the necessary speed and distance and subsequently landed on the highway pavement."
Even though LeBeau had been wearing a helmet and other protective gear when he hit the ground, he was knocked unconscious and had stopped breathing, according to an announcement by the Grand County Sheriff's Office. Bystanders quickly initiated CPR, but first responders determined at the scene that he was dead.
Devin Shirk, a friend of LeBeau who started a GoFundMe page on his behalf, described LeBeau as "one of the most joyful and kind people you could ever meet." Other friends and acquaintances described LeBeau as a fun person to be around.
Lawson Douglas, who said he skied with LeBeau a few times as a kid, said: "Dallas was a light and I just remember how much fun I had those few times shredding. Dallas had fun, and I know he will continue that wherever his souls ends up. Keep shredding my friend."
Dallas Lebeau doing a flip off of an unnamed cliff in December 2022. Credit: Dallas LeBeau/Instagram
According to the page, LeBeau started skiing when he was 2 years old. He also had an Instagram page highlighting his ability as a skier. In videos, he's doing flips, jumping off cliffs, and taking on difficult terrain.
The GoFundMe page, which has surpassed its fundraising goal, has reached $49,501. All the proceeds will go toward the cost of the funeral and other financial expenses for LeBeau's family.
