Authorities in Switzerland have confirmed that five skiers were found dead on a glacier near the popular winter resort of Zermatt.
The discovery was made after two hikers reported seeing abandoned skis in the area surrounding Rimpfischhorn, a 4,199-meter peak in the Valais Alps. A helicopter was deployed on Sunday to search the region, leading to the tragic find on the Adler Glacier.
According to the Valais cantonal police, the victims were located at various altitudes among avalanche debris. Air rescue service Air Zermatt reported that three bodies were found together, while the remaining two were discovered on a narrower, elevated section of snow.
Authorities are still working to formally identify the victims, and their nationalities have not yet been released.
Rimpfischhorn, situated near the Italian border, is known for its challenging terrain and attracts experienced backcountry skiers. The ascent to the summit typically takes about five hours and is recommended only for seasoned alpinists.
In a separate incident further north, in the Bern canton, a 29-year-old climber died after being caught in an avalanche on the Morgenhorn. Two others were rescued and transported to a hospital with minor injuries.
So far this winter season—from October 1, 2024, to May 17, 2025—15 people have died in avalanches across Switzerland, according to the Institute for the Study of Snow and Avalanches.
The area around Zermatt has seen tragedy before. In March 2024, six backcountry skiers, including five members of the same family, lost their lives after being trapped in a severe storm in the mountains near the resort.