Williams College Freshman Dies in Skiing Accident at Jiminy Peak

Alex Kemp, a 19-year-old freshman at Williams College, died on Tuesday following a skiing accident at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Hancock, Massachusetts. Kemp, a standout cross-country runner, sustained severe head trauma after veering over an embankment on Cutter Trail on Monday afternoon.

According to the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office, Kemp was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Emergency medical crews responded immediately, but he succumbed to his injuries at Berkshire Medical Center the following day. Investigators confirmed that there is no indication drugs or alcohol were involved in the incident.

Kemp, a native of New Jersey and a graduate of Christian Brothers Academy, was a rising star in collegiate athletics. In his first year at Williams College, he was a consistent contributor to the cross-country team, finishing 63rd at the NCAA Division III Cross Country Championships and emerging as the top freshman in the field. During his high school career, Kemp placed ninth at the NJSIAA Cross Country Meet of Champions and won the Non-Public Group A State Championship in the 3200 meters.

Williams College President Maud Mandel addressed the tragedy in a statement to the college community, expressing deep sorrow over Kemp’s passing. Cross-country coach Dusty Lopez described Kemp as a self-assured, positive, and kind individual who was deeply committed to his team. “Alex had a self-assured, positive, kind way about him and it was consistent every day,” Lopez said. “He loved being at Williams, being part of our team, and he always knew how to bring others along with him.”

Lopez also highlighted Kemp’s dedication to his teammates, noting that he took pride in their successes even on his own challenging days. “The team was always his biggest priority,” Lopez added. “Our entire team feels a huge sense of loss and grief at this tragic accident.”

The cause of the accident remains under investigation. Kemp’s death has left the Williams College community and his hometown in New Jersey mourning the loss of a talented athlete and beloved teammate.