Missing Skier Found Dead at Whiteface Mountain, NY State Police Say

New York State Police Respond To Skiing Incident

According to the New York State Police on Wednesday February 4th, 2026, responded to a call at Whiteface Mountain near NYS Route 86 in the town of Wilmington.

In the press release it was described as a skiing incident. The call came in at 1:03 pm.

A 44-year-old skier Michael E. Vacek Jr. from Atlanta, Georgia was reported missing 10:00 am by friends. NYS Police explain that the friends reported Vacek Jr. missing to Whiteface Mountain Ski Patrol after he "failed to return while skiing the trails."

Missing Skier Found Dead on Whiteface Mountain

When Vacek Jr. failed to make a return to the skiing trails Whiteface Mountain Ski Patrol "initiated a search."

That's when Vacek was located. The press release states the skier was found in the tree line "along the Upper/Lower Skyward Trail."

The press release continues:

A Ski Patrol Supervisor was notified, Vacek was transported to the medical building, where life-saving measures continued by the local fire and rescue departments but were unsuccessful.

Sadly, Vacek was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Vacek's body was removed from the scene and transported to Glens Falls Hospital. The New York State Police are currently investigating.

Whiteface Mountain Top Rated Ski Resorts Across New York State

When it comes to ski slopes, New York state is a great destination for those looking for a winter adventure.

When it comes down to it, Whiteface Mountain is one of the top rated among the slopes. Powder Magazine says about Whiteface Mountain:

Known for the highest vertical in the East, 94 trails, and a premier, challenging experience for skiers.

They say that it's considered the "most iconic ski resort" as it has the highest vertical drop in the Northeast at 3,430 feet.