by WAUSAU, Wis. — A University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh student has died following a skiing accident at Granite Peak Ski Area, marking the second deadly incident at the resort in less than a month, according to local authorities.
The tragedy unfolded on Feb. 5 at University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh student Alexandra Blattner was skiing at Granite Peak Ski Area, one of the Midwest’s largest ski resorts.
Student Found Unconscious After Reported Crash
According to the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, first responders located the 20-year-old unresponsive after she reportedly collided with a tree while skiing. Authorities said she had no pulse when she was found.
Emergency crews attempted lifesaving measures, but Blattner was later pronounced dead that evening.
In a campus-wide email the following day, Chancellor Manohar Singh confirmed her passing, expressing condolences to students, faculty and staff.
A Life Remembered for Compassion and Leadership
Blattner, originally from Neenah, Wisconsin, was studying pre-nursing and psychology and had already gained experience as a certified nursing assistant, according to her obituary.
At UW-Oshkosh, she was deeply involved in campus life. She served in student senate and was active in her sorority, Tri Sigma, where she held the role of vice president of recruitment.
“Ally was a shining light in every room she entered. She loved to be with others. She wouldn’t walk away until you were smiling and laughing along with her.”
Her obituary described her as energetic, compassionate and devoted to helping others. Even in death, her family shared that she donated her tissues to help others, continuing the caregiving spirit that defined her life.
The UW-Oshkosh chapter of Tri Sigma paid tribute, calling her a sister who made a lasting impact across the campus community.
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A memorial service was held on Feb. 12, followed by her funeral the next day. Her family encouraged donations in her memory to organizations including the Boys and Girls Brigade, March of Dimes, the Tri Sigma Foundation, and local community programs — or volunteering at nursing homes or mental health facilities.
Second Fatal Incident at Granite Peak
Blattner’s death comes less than a month after another fatal skiing accident at Granite Peak.
On Jan. 11, a male skier reportedly lost a ski and fell down a slope, striking his head on a tree. According to local reports, the man was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Despite emergency medical efforts, he later died from his injuries.
Authorities have not released additional details about safety conditions related to either accident. Granite Peak, located in Wausau, is a popular winter destination known for its steep terrain and extensive trail system.
Ski Safety in Focus
While skiing remains a popular winter sport, experts emphasize the importance of helmet use, controlled speeds, awareness of surroundings and staying within skill level limits. Even experienced skiers can face unpredictable terrain or sudden loss of control.
Officials have not indicated that weather or equipment failure played a role in either recent incident. Investigations into the Feb. 5 crash remain ongoing.
The back-to-back tragedies have left the campus community and local residents grieving during what is typically a busy winter recreation season.
Have you or someone you know experienced safety concerns while skiing? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below.
