Industry News
A 52-year-old Norwegian snowboarder died on Sunday afternoon after falling into a crevasse while riding off-piste in the Swiss ski resort of Saas-Fee, according to a statement from the Valais Cantonal Police. The accident occurred on Sunday, March 2, around 2:30 p.m. when two snowboarders ventured outside the marked slopes. One of them fell several meters into a deep crevasse, suffering fatal injuries.
Emergency responders from the Valais rescue organization, supported by Air Zermatt, were dispatched to the scene alongside the cantonal police. Rescuers successfully located and retrieved the victim, but despite immediate resuscitation efforts, he was pronounced dead at the site.
Saas-Fee, a high-altitude resort in the Swiss Alps, is known for its glacier skiing and challenging off-piste terrain. Located in the canton of Valais (Wallis), the resort attracts skiers and snowboarders seeking both groomed runs and backcountry experiences. However, its rugged alpine environment presents inherent risks, particularly for those who venture beyond marked trails.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. The tragedy underscores the dangers of off-piste skiing and snowboarding, especially in glaciated areas where hidden crevasses pose a significant hazard. The Valais police urge visitors to exercise caution and remain within designated slopes unless properly equipped and accompanied by experienced guides. In recent weeks there has been a marked increase of tourists ignoring warning signs and ducking under ropes, endangering themselves and rescue workers. Earlier this week on Friday, February 28, a Polish skier ducked under the ropes on the Pitztal Glacier in Austria to retrieve a personal item and fell 30 meters (99 feet) into a crevasse just 10 meters (33 feet) behind the rope. Thankfully he only sustained minor injuries and was able to use his mobile phone to call for help.
