While climbing the 13k foot Dome de Neige des Ecrins outside of the French town of Pelvoux, seven people were swept off the mountain and subsequently killed by an avalanche. The area, which is known for its relatively moderate grades and accessible climbs can quickly become dangerous under certain conditions.
According to reports from the local police obtained by the BBC, conditions on the mountain were “winter like” at the time of the accident.
PRESS RELEASE- 5:35 p.m September 14, 2015
Following the avalanche, which occurred today near the town of Pelvoux, victim identification is underway.
For now, the research can be concluded that among the victims:
- 3 died of German nationality
- 2 died of Czech citizenship
- 2 died whose nationality is not yet established
- 1 injured German national (broken femur)
All the fatalities were men. The injured person is a woman.
