Five Skiers Found Dead Near Swiss Resort

The bodies of five skiers have been discovered near the Rimpfischhorn mountain, east of Switzerland’s upscale Zermatt resort, following a search triggered by the discovery of abandoned ski gear, Swiss police confirmed.

A helicopter was dispatched on Saturday after mountaineers spotted four pairs of skis near the summit, prompting immediate concern. Air Zermatt, the aviation company involved in the operation, said three bodies were located on an avalanche cone, while two others were found approximately 200 meters higher on a snow-covered slope.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are working to identify the victims. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

The victims were found on the Adler Glacier at an altitude of around 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), in a region popular with experienced backcountry skiers. The Rimpfischhorn, a 4,199-meter (13,776-foot) peak near the Italian border, is known for its challenging terrain.

The tragic discovery came just weeks after severe snowfall caused avalanches and temporary road closures in Zermatt, a resort famed for its stunning views of the Matterhorn.

Air Zermatt also reported that it had carried out another difficult rescue mission nearby the same day, retrieving two stranded mountaineers from the Fiescherhörner amid strong winds and thick fog.

Local authorities have not yet commented publicly. An investigation is ongoing.