Snowboarder Christian Mares faces charges after triggering avalanche at Sugar Bowl

Christian Michael Mares, 29, was wearing a Go Pro camera when he boarded down a steep run that had been closed since 2010.

“The area is clearly marked as closed from both the Mt. Disney and Mt. Lincoln directions, and it is a very active avalanche area”, Sugar Bowl officials said. He got lucky to end up on top, to say the least, especially considering how deep it’s been out there lately.

According to a widely circulated video on YouTube published by Heckler Media (which contains vulgar language), Mares filmed himself riding out the avalanche as it happened, apparently narrowly escaping serious injury or death. ‘As soon as I realized I was in an avalanche, I was trying to get to the trees to grab on to them’.

Mitzi Hodges, owner of Donner Ski Shop near the resort, said she found the video terrifying. But then I saw sunlight’.

He said he didn’t think his ride would set off a snowslide at Sugar Bowl Resort near Norden last Friday, and he definitely didn’t think he would be facing trespassing charges.

The Placer County Sheriff’s Office is reportedly investigating Mares for trespassing. “The irresponsible and reckless decision to snowboard or ski in closed terrain endangers other skiers and ski patrol, and will not be tolerated”.

“Sugar Bowl Resort places the highest priority on the safety of its guests and employees”, officials said.

The sheriff’s office has said that it has referred the matter to the district attorney’s office for possible prosecution. Mares said he has yet to hear from the resort despite repeatedly calling officials.

In the past, when skiers with season passes have entered closed areas, resort management officials would pull their privileges and ban them for a period of time.

However, a post on Mares” Facebook page yesterday reads: “I like how Sugar Bowl can make a biased press release, but when I call to talk to someone no one is available to talk to.