Skier's body found near Boulder

By Vanessa Miller, Daily Camera

Originally published 10:54 a.m., January 2, 2008
Updated 10:54 a.m., January 2, 2008

BOULDER — A Boulder man whose body was found by a pair of joggers on a trail off Flagstaff Road appeared to have been cross-country skiing when he died, said Boulder County sheriff's Cmdr. Phil West.

The man, who has not been identified, apparently died of natural causes, West said. An autopsy is being performed this morning, and Boulder County Coroner Tom Faure said he expects to release the man's name later today.

The man, who was in his late-40s, died Monday and was found by the runners about 9:30 a.m. Tuesday about 200 yards off the Realization Point Trailhead on the Green Mountain Trail, according to the Sheriff's Office.

When he was found, the man was wearing ski gear but his skis were not attached to his boots, West said. There is nothing to indicate he commit suicide, West said.

The man was alone, and no one reported him missing.

Numerous agencies responded to the joggers' 911 call reporting the body, including Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks, Rocky Mountain Rescue Group and Mile High Fire Protection Authority.

Sheriff's officers said, "It does not appear that there is anything suspicious in the nature and cause of death," but the office said it's continuing to investigate.

West said people who plan to recreate outdoors can take precautions by telling someone where they're going and when they expect to return.

"In the event they should fall or become injured, there will be a starting place for a search and rescue," West said.