Skier William Ingrim in Coma and Facing Paralysis After Slush Cup Crash in Alaska
GIRDWOOD, Alaska — William Ingrim, 28, remains hospitalized in a medically-induced coma following a terrifying crash during the Alaska Airlines Slush Cup held Saturday at Alyeska Resort. The high-speed pond skim accident left Ingrim with severe neck injuries and likely paralysis, his family confirmed in a developing story that has shocked sports and ski fans nationwide.
Video of the event shows Ingrim launching off a jump at high velocity, soaring nearly the full length of the icy pool before landing hard near the water’s end. Emergency personnel rushed to his side immediately, highlighting the incident’s severity. Ingrim’s mother, Robin Ingrim, told Alaska’s News Source Sunday that her son is currently on a ventilator and that doctors placed him in an induced coma to manage his critical condition.
Induced Coma and Fears of Paralysis
Robin Ingrim revealed that William underwent neck surgery to reduce pressure on his spinal column. She expressed deep fear and uncertainty, explaining that her son has lost movement in his upper and lower body quadrants. While doctors expect some upper-body function to return after relieving spinal pressure, she fears William will not regain use of his legs.
“He wants us to let him die, and I’m like, ‘I can’t do that.’ By the grace of God, Will is gonna get better, and I’m hoping he’s able to walk again someday,” Robin said.
William, a commercial fisherman and a ski coach who teaches freeride classes at Alyeska in winter, is one of seven children and his mother’s only son. “He’s precious to me,” Robin said. “Will is the nicest young man you know.” She detailed the emotional toll this tragedy is taking on the family, explaining that they must also support William emotionally during his recovery.
Alyeska Resort Responds to Incident
Alyeska Resort officials released a statement Monday expressing sympathy for Ingrim and his family, emphasizing that event safety is their top priority.
“The Slush Cup is a longstanding event that is carefully planned with safety measures in place, including trained personnel and emergency response teams on site,” said Alyeska spokesperson Bayne Salmon. “Out of respect for the individual and their family, we will not be sharing additional personal details at this time.”
As of Sunday, Robin Ingrim stated she has not been contacted directly by Alyeska Resort. Attempts to learn of any prior serious injuries in Slush Cup history remain unanswered.
Next Steps and Community Support
William Ingrim is expected to undergo a second surgery on his back in the near future as doctors continue to address the spinal injuries. His family asks for privacy but appreciates the flood of messages checking on his condition.
This incident brings urgent focus on the risks athletes face in extreme winter sports events like pond skimming. The Slush Cup’s popularity and tradition collide with inherent dangers, making this a story with serious implications beyond Alaska.
The Alabama Report will continue monitoring this situation for new updates and medical reports. Readers nationwide are reminded of the unpredictable nature of extreme sports and the resilience of families facing life-changing injuries.
