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Monday 23/02/2026

Tragic Ski Lift Accident Claims Life of Australian Snowboarder in Japan

Japanese ski resort with a memorial of flowers and snowboard
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • An Australian woman, Brooke Day, died after her backpack became entangled in a ski lift at Tsugaike Mountain Resort, Japan.
  • The accident occurred on Friday morning, leading to a cardiac arrest; she was pronounced dead at the hospital.
  • The resort and lift company have issued apologies and are cooperating with authorities to investigate the incident.
  • Brooke Day was an experienced snowboarder and was in her fourth snow season in Japan.
  • Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance to Day's family.

A tragic accident at Tsugaike Mountain Resort in Japan has claimed the life of 22-year-old Australian snowboarder Brooke Day. The incident occurred on Friday morning when Day's backpack became entangled in the mechanism of a ski lift, leaving her suspended mid-air and leading to a cardiac arrest. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Incident Details and Investigation

The accident took place at the Tsuga No.2 Pair Lift in Otari, Nagano Prefecture. According to reports, an unfastened buckle on Day's backpack hooked onto the lift chair while the chest strap remained fastened, causing her to be dragged along the snow. An attendant quickly stopped the lift by pressing the emergency button, but the swift response was not enough to save her life.

Tsugaike Mountain Resort and Tsugaike Gondola Lift Co have expressed their deepest condolences to Day's family and have pledged to enhance safety measures. "We take this situation very seriously and will strive to operate the ski resort in a safe manner," said Tsuneo Kubo, the resort's chief executive. The resort is working closely with police and other authorities to investigate the cause of the accident and review safety procedures.

Remembering Brooke Day

Brooke Day was remembered by her family as a "vibrant spirit" and an advanced snowboarder known for her safety-conscious approach. This was her fourth snow season in Japan, and she was trained in avalanche rescue. Tributes have poured in from friends and community members, including the Maroochydore Roos AFL Club, where Day was a cherished teammate.

Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed Day's death and is providing consular assistance to her family. "We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time," a spokesperson said.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The tragic incident at Tsugaike Mountain Resort has raised concerns about ski lift safety and the potential risks associated with equipment entanglement. As the investigation unfolds, authorities may consider implementing stricter safety protocols and equipment checks to prevent similar accidents in the future. This incident also highlights the importance of awareness and caution among skiers and snowboarders regarding their gear while using ski lifts. The outcome of the investigation could lead to policy changes aimed at enhancing safety measures across ski resorts in Japan and potentially worldwide.