30°
Peter Mathews, of Long Island, was wearing a helmet when he fell backward while snowboarding, hit his head and became unconscious last Thursday, Dec. 8 at Big Snow, his family told the outlet. He was rushed to Hackensack University Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
"We can confirm that our ski patrol responded to a guest incident last Thursday evening," Big Snow said in a statement. "First aid was administered, and the guest was transported to a local hospital for further care. In the interest of the guest’s privacy, no additional information will be provided. Our thoughts are with this guest’s family at this time."
Mathews was a traditional guardsman who served in the Maryland Air National Guard since 2020, according to the 175th Wing. He was a crew chief assigned to the 175th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, where he was had been serving on orders until his off-duty death.
"Earlier this year, Mathews mobilized with his squadron and A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 104th Fighter Squadron to support two U.S. Army Europe-led exercises in Eastern Europe: Swift Response and Defender Europe 22," the the 175th Wing writes. "He was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal for his accomplishments during those exercises."
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey Golabiewski noted Mathews had a "remarkable future and was destined for greatness."
“He was in the process of following in his father’s footsteps to become a pilot. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and anyone who knew Peter.”
Click here to follow Daily Voice West Milford and receive free news updates.
