by Rib Mountain, Wisconsin — A 20-year-old college student has died following a ski accident at Granite Peak Ski Resort, marking the second fatal incident at the popular Wisconsin destination within a month.
Alexandra “Ally” Blattner, a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, was killed Feb. 5 after reportedly crashing into a tree while skiing at Granite Peak Ski Resort.
According to the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, Blattner was found with a broken neck. Authorities said the death was considered accidental.
Officials indicated she died instantly and without pain following the impact.
Campus and Community Mourn “Shining Light”
Blattner, a resident of Neenah, Wisconsin, was remembered by friends, classmates and university leaders as a vibrant and compassionate presence on campus.
Her obituary described her as someone who embraced life fully.
“While enjoying life as she did best, Alexandra Jean Blattner unexpectedly died after a skiing accident,” the obituary stated. “Ally was a shining light in every room she entered.”
The university’s chancellor, Manohar Singh, announced her passing to the campus community the following day.
“She and I connected very well when I was the new chancellor,” Singh said. “Ally is something that I’ll also be living with for my entire life.”
Blattner was studying pre-nursing and psychology, and she served as a student government senator. She was also an active member of the Tri Sigma sorority chapter, where she held the role of vice president of recruitment.
Tori Deptula, president of the chapter, said:
“We are all so lucky to get to call Ally our sister. She not only made an impact in our lives but all across our campus community.”
Second Fatal Crash in Less Than a Month
Blattner’s death comes just weeks after another fatal skiing accident at the same resort.
On Jan. 11, 30-year-old Matthew Ciolkosz reportedly lost a ski and crashed into a tree at Granite Peak, according to local media. His helmet was shattered in the collision, and despite lifesaving efforts, he later died from his injuries.
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Both incidents have been ruled accidental by investigators.
The back-to-back tragedies have left the local community shaken as winter recreation season continues across Wisconsin.
Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances of Blattner’s crash, but the sheriff’s office confirmed that no foul play is suspected.
As friends and family remember Ally Blattner’s life and contributions, the university community continues to grieve the sudden loss of a student described as energetic, compassionate and deeply connected to those around her.
If you’d like to share memories or messages of support for her family and friends, you can do so respectfully in the comments below.
