In a heartbreaking turn of events near Switzerland’s exclusive Zermatt ski resort, rescue teams have located the bodies of five missing skiers following a high-altitude avalanche.
Authorities were alerted after climbers ascending the 4,199-meter Rimpfischhorn noticed multiple sets of skis abandoned near the summit. Their report triggered an intensive search operation involving both aerial surveillance and ground crews across the Valais Alps.
Valais police confirmed that the victims were discovered scattered across avalanche debris on the Adler Glacier, close to the Swiss-Italian border. According to Air Zermatt, three of the skiers were found in one section, while the remaining two were located further up on a narrow, snow-covered ridge.
The discovery of a fifth set of skis confirmed the group had been traveling together. As of now, the identities of the deceased have not been made public. Local prosecutors have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the fatal accident.
This tragedy follows another mountain emergency on Friday night, when four alpinists were trapped by severe fog and strong winds on the Fiescherhörner peaks. Although the first rescue attempt failed due to the weather, a second mission just after midnight successfully airlifted all four to safety.
