Canadian skier killed in World Cup skicross event in Switzerland

Ottawa, Mar 11 (ANI): Canadian skier Nick Zoricic has died after crashing into safety nets during a World Cup skicross event in Switzerland.

He reportedly suffered fatal head injuries after going wide of the course at the final jump.

Television pictures showed him tumbling through the nets as his skis and poles were thrown clear.

The 29-year-old, who had competed on the World Cup circuit for over three years, was taking part in his 36th event.

Despite the efforts of medics at the scene, Zoricic died as a result of "severe neurotrauma", the International Ski Federation (FIS) said in a statement.

"Nick Zoricic fell heavily just before the finish in the round of eight, crashing directly into the safety netting and thereafter lying motionless," a spokesman said.

"The medical care from team doctors and Air Glacier followed immediately. Despite reanimation, Zoricic died as a result of severe neurotrauma. The organising committee, FIS and Swiss Ski express their deepest condolences to the family and friends of Nick Zoricic and the Canadian Ski Team," he added.

Events for both men and women in the competition have been abandoned, including Sunday's finals which were scheduled to take place at the same venue in Grindelwald. (ANI)