Two alpinists from Germany were confronted with death on Saturday morning during a ski trip in Silvretta in Vorarlberg. On the way to Piz Buin they were hit by a snow patch.
The two men from Baden-Württemberg, aged 49 and 55, had chosen the option along the moraine under the “Groene Kuppe” for the route towards Biz Buin. At the summer hiking trail they decided to cross the slope and then climb up the old hiking trail. The younger man walked forward, the older one following a few feet behind him. After they had passed about 100 meters from the slope, the accident happened: just above them, a piece of snow came loose and took the two winter sports enthusiasts with it.
Eyewitness became a guardian angel
While the 49-year-old was completely buried by the avalanche, his companion was able to free himself from the snow. Fortunately, an eyewitness observed the dramatic scenes from the Wiesbadner Hütte. She notified the hut owner, who immediately made an emergency call and sent six hut guests to the avalanche cone as first responders.
Successful resuscitation
Just 15 minutes later, first responders and the 55-year-old ski tourer were able to locate the buried victim. They dug out the already motionless body and immediately began CPR.
And indeed: the 49-year-old started breathing independently again. The seriously injured alpinist was then flown to Feldkirch State Hospital by the emergency helicopter crew. His companion, who was unharmed, was transported to the valley by Libelle’s police helicopter.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
