Ludington man dies after skiing accident.

Mark Knee

THOMPSONVILLE (Benzie Co.) — Ludington resident Mark Knee died following a skiing accident at Crystal Mountain Resort. According to Upnorthlive.com, the 40-year-old crashed into a tree on the west edge of the intermediate-level trail, Abbey Road, on the North Face slopes about 10:30 a.m. Sunday.

Knee reportedly was wearing a helmet and witnesses said he appeared to lose control at a fast rate of speed before hitting the tree. Ski Patrol provided medical care until EMS arrived.  Knee was taken to Munson Medical Center in Traverse City were he was pronounced dead.

“Our hearts and thoughts are immediately with the family who suffered this loss,” said Brian Lawson, director of public relations at Crystal Mountain. “We will be reaching out to offer our support to them just as we have to our ski patrollers and employees who acted so quickly, professionally and compassionately in the moments following this tragic event.”