Backpack snag on Japanese ski lift kills Australian snowboarder in Hakuba
An Australian 22-year-old snowboarder died in Hakuba Valley, Japan after her backpack became entangled in a ski-lift chair, dragging her midair and causing cardiac arrest. She was rushed to a hospital where she died. The lift operator said the backpack’s waist strap hindered detachment, and staff halted the lift and provided emergency assistance. Australia’s consulate is supporting the family, while authorities and the lift company vow to review safety measures at the Tsugaike Mountain Resort.