By Evan Johnson
KILLINGTON—A longtime Killington Resort employee died while on the job Saturday, according to state police.
According to a news release, EMS responded to the Killington Ski Resort for an injured employee. The employee, Jeffrey K. Chalk, age 53 of Pittsford, had been found injured and unresponsive by a fellow employee. Chalk, a gondola mechanic, was discovered on the floor of Skyeship Gondola’s North Brook Terminal. Chalk was aided by medical personnel at the resort and subsequently transported to the Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC) where he was pronounced dead at 5:33 p.m.
The initial indications are Chalk was working alone when he fell approximately 13 feet from a catwalk to the cement floor below. There was evidence that Chalk had sustained a serious head injury. Chalk will undergo an autopsy at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) to determine the cause and manner of death. Chalk’s death is being jointly investigated by the state police and the OCME. state police have made a standard referral to Vermont’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
President and General Manager of Killington Resort Mike Solimano issued a statement:
“All of us here at Killington Resort are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and co-worker. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Jeff’s family and friends during this very difficult time. Jeff worked tirelessly throughout his 28-year-career to ensure lifts operated safely and reliably. He will be missed by coworkers and guests alike.”