Tragic End To Search For Missing Snowboarder

TRUCKEE, Calif. (CBS13) -- The search for a snowboarder who was last seen heading outside the Alpine Meadows boundaries ended in heartbreak when the missing woman was found dead.

A Placer County search and rescue helicopter located 25-year-old Shawnte Marie Willis' body about 400 feet below the Pacific Crest Trail in the Granite Chief Wilderness area, according to authorities.

Willis may have crashed shortly after separating with her friends and snowboarding away from the groomed runs at Alpine Meadows Ski Resort. The exact cause of death won't be determined until an autopsy is performed.

"She was located in a tree well," said Placer County Sheriff's Captain Jeffrey Ausnow. "There is some indication she may have crashed there."

Heavy snowfall and wind gusts that topped 100 miles per hour kept search helicopters grounded until Thursday morning and "fought us every step of the way," Ausnow said.

Tree wells form around the base of trees during or immediately after heavy snowfall, experts say. Low branches form a canopy that blocks snow from falling close to the tree trunk, keeping the snow pack far less dense and compact than the surrounding area, making the snow incapable of supporting a person's weight.

The phenomenon is known to cause fatal accidents, especially when victims are out of immediate eyesight of potential rescuers.

"All of a sudden you get thrown off your balance and could possibly run into the tree that you are right next to," said Land Park Ski & Sports Corner employee Eric Suter. "You are going to cave towards the less firm snow, which is closer to the tree."