Tragic Discovery: Five Skiers Found Dead Near Zermatt Resort

Rescue teams have recovered the bodies of five skiers in the Valais Alps near Switzerland’s upscale Zermatt resort. The grim discovery was made a day after climbers reported unattended skis on Rimpfischhorn, leading to an aerial and ground search operation. Local authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

The tragic incident unfolded as rescuers scoured the area near the Rimpfischhorn peak, which rises to an altitude of 4,199 meters. The alert was raised when a group of climbers noticed several pairs of abandoned skis near the summit.

Subsequent searches led teams to discover the victims' bodies scattered on the Adler Glacier, some embedded in avalanche debris—clearly marking the dangers of high-altitude skiing. The Valais police reported that the bodies were found at varying altitudes, reflecting the chaotic scene caused by the avalanche.

Rescue service Air Zermatt revealed that three of the skiers were located in close proximity, while two others were found higher up, mirroring the perilous conditions of their last descent. During the investigation, a fifth pair of skis was discovered, confirming that the skiers were a party of five.

The identities of the deceased have not been officially released, as investigations by the public prosecutor's office continue to determine the specific circumstances that led to this tragedy.

In an unrelated incident on Friday night, Air Zermatt also dealt with a precarious rescue operation involving four climbers stranded on the Fiescherhörner amid severe weather conditions. Initial rescue efforts were impeded by fog and high winds, but perseverance paid off when a second attempt at 12:00 AM successfully evacuated all four climbers to safety.

This series of events highlights the inherent risks faced by skiers and mountaineers in the challenging Alpine environment.