Eliot Dänzer, a professional snowboarder from Switzerland, died in an avalanche on the Eiger on May 17, 2025. He was one of two people killed in the accident.
Dänzer was a well-known athlete in the freeride snowboarding community. He competed in the Freeride World Tour (FWT) Challenger series and finished third overall in the most recent season. Earlier this season, he won the Nendaz Freeride competition. Both the Nendaz Freeride and the Freeride World Tour paid tribute to him after the tragedy.
In a statement, the Freeride World Tour said:
“It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of our dear Eliot Dänzer, who was swept away this Saturday in an avalanche on the Eiger. Eliot was part of the great freeride family. A talented, humble, and passionate rider, he embodied the values of our community: commitment, friendship, freedom, and respect for the mountain. Our heartfelt thoughts go out to his sweetheart Eva, his family, his loved ones, and all those who were lucky enough to share a trace, a smile, or a line with him. Thank you for all the good times we had with you, Eliot. Ride in peace.”
The avalanche struck around 1:45 p.m. on the west side of the Eiger, above the Grindelwald-Wengen ski area. Along with Dänzer, another skier lost their life. Five more people were injured.
Rescue teams responded quickly to the scene. The operation included members of the Swiss Alpine Rescue, the Bern Cantonal Police, two avalanche rescue dogs, three Rega helicopter teams, four Air-Glaciers helicopters, and one Swiss Helicopter.