US media outlets are reporting that former world champion skier Kyle Smaine was killed in an avalanche in central Japan on Sunday.

Many messages have been posted on social media. The US Freeski Team wrote, "Today we lost an incredible person, friend, skier and teammate to the mountains." It added, "Smaine loved exploring the mountains, was a fierce competitor but an even better person and friend."

Smaine's wife wrote, "I'm so incredibly thankful that I got to marry you and have you in my life."

Police in Japan say on Sunday foreign nationals were caught in an avalanche outside the boundaries of a resort in Nagano Prefecture. Two men were reportedly found on Monday with no vital signs.

The International Ski Federation says Smaine won the halfpipe at the World Championships in 2015 and the World Cup in 2018.