The Gunnison Valley mourns the loss of 34-year-old Kelsey Boleski, a resident of Crested Butte. Boleski lost her life near Riverland in the midst of an intense storm cycle that blanketed the region in freshly fallen snow.
The somber incident unfolded on Sunday morning, March 3, when officers from the Mt. Crested Butte police department responded to a distress call near the intersection of Highway 135 and Riverland.
At 10:40 a.m., they discovered Boleski’s lifeless body in the snow, prompting immediate action. Mt. Crested Butte public information officer Madeline Thomas explained that the discovery occurred in the vicinity of a private driveway and the highway. The police department, contracted through Gunnison County, swiftly took charge of the situation.
Grim Silence Surrounds Investigation
Gunnison County Coroner Michael Barnes, who identified the victim, shed light on the limited information available. Despite his presence at the scene, Barnes could not disclose the cause of Boleski’s death or any additional details, citing an ongoing investigation.
Sheriff Adam Murdie confirmed the fatality but, like Barnes, provided no further insights. The tragedy occurred during an intense snowfall, with the Crested Butte Avalanche Center reporting 8-11 inches of snow overnight and additional snowfall throughout Sunday. Wind speeds of up to 50 miles per hour added to the challenging conditions in the area where Boleski was found.
Remembering Kelsey Boleski: A Life Cut Short
Originally from Vermont, Kelsey Boleski had established herself in Crested Butte and worked as a store manager at Christy Sports, according to her Facebook profile. The community extends its heartfelt condolences to her friends and family, grappling with the sudden loss.
Support for Those in Need
In the wake of this tragic incident, the community is rallying to support those affected. Crested Butte State of Mind, an organization dedicated to mental health advocacy, encourages anyone struggling to reach out for help.
The organization’s website (cbstateofmind.org) provides resources, and a confidential 24-hour crisis hotline is available at 844-493-8255. Individuals can also text TALK to 38255 for support. As the investigation into Kelsey Boleski’s untimely death continues, the community grieves and reflects on the fragility of life in the face of nature’s unforgiving forces.
