An eight-year-old Australian girl tragically died after a snowmobile accident at a popular ski resort in Japan’s Hakuba Valley, located in the northwest of Nagano prefecture.
The child, identified as Chloe Jeffries from the Gold Coast in Queensland, was on a family holiday when the accident occurred on Saturday during a guided snowmobile tour.
Snowmobile overturned during tour
According to travel operator Hakuba Lion Adventure, the tour involved nine snowmobiles, including three guides. The accident occurred near an uphill curve along a forest trail during the excursion.
In a statement, the company said the snowmobile rode up onto an embankment at the side of the trail before overturning.
“The vehicle subsequently overturned. As a result of the overturn, the passenger riding tandem on the snowmobile became trapped beneath the vehicle,” the company said.
Emergency responders provided first aid at the scene, and the child was transported by helicopter to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, she could not be revived.
Tours suspended after tragedy
Following the accident, the tour operator announced that it would suspend all snowmobile and snowshoe tours until further notice while reviewing its safety procedures.
The company said it is cooperating with police and local authorities as investigations into the incident continue.
“We sincerely and deeply apologise for the great concern and distress caused to all parties concerned and to our customers,” the company said in its statement.
Support for grieving family
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed that it is providing consular assistance to the family.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time,” the department said.
Community pays tribute
Back home in Australia, the South Coast Netball Association paid tribute to Chloe, remembering her as a cheerful and kind-hearted child who brought joy to those around her.
“Chloe was a very special part of our South Coast netball family. She was known for her beautiful nature, her cheeky, infectious smile, and the joy she brought simply by being herself,” the association said in a social media post.
The tribute also highlighted her close bond with her sister Hallee, whom she often supported enthusiastically during matches.
Fourth Australian death in Japan’s snowfields this year
Chloe’s death marks the fourth Australian fatality in Japan’s snowfields this year.
In February, 27-year-old Melbourne resident Michael Hurst died while skiing in Niseko. Earlier, Queensland snowboarder Brooke Day died after her avalanche rescue backpack became caught in a ski lift. Another incident involved Brisbane teenager Ryan Pribadi, who reportedly died while skiing in Niseko.
The tragedies have renewed discussions about safety measures and risk awareness for international tourists visiting Japan’s popular winter sports destinations.