EBS STAFF
Red Lodge Mountain has involved “independent experts, including professional weather forecasters and structural engineers,” in a chairlift safety investigation following a guest fatality last season.
On March 10, 2025, 37-year-old Jeffrey Zinne of Billings was riding Triple Chair alone when he was thrown from the lift after a strong wind gust, and died from injuries suffered in the fall. One hundred and thirty-five other passengers were rope evacuated without incident. On Oct. 24, Red Lodge Mountain released information regarding a safety investigation of Triple Chair, stating that they “have taken steps not only to repair, but also to add redundant safety measures to the Triple Chair.”
Safety measures, according to the release, include reinforced lift towers and the installation of anemometers that offer additional real-time recording of wind speed along various elevations of the lift, so operators can get a full scope of weather conditions.
“Along with our other lifts, the Triple Chair underwent a thorough third-party inspection this off-season to ensure it meets all required Montana operating standards,” the news release continued. “Once required load testing has been completed and the lift has been approved for use by the U.S. Forest Service, snow conditions permitting, we plan to reopen the Triple Chair for the 2025-26 season and provide resort guests with access to the terrain it serves.”
