Mountaineer from Catalonia perishes, and partner sustains severe injuries during an expedition in the Swiss Alps
In the Swiss Alps, a tragic incident occurred on August 8, 2025, during the descent from the Mönch peak. Two climbers, roped together, fell several hundred meters in the lower section of the normal descent route.
The accident claimed the life of a 60-year-old Spanish man, who was a resident of Vilafranca del Penedès. The woman, also a climber, was seriously injured and airlifted to a hospital in critical condition.
The Mönch peak, a renowned mountain located in the Bernese Alps, was the site of this unfortunate event. The Bern police received the alert just before 11:50 AM.
The rescue operation was a joint effort involving Air-Glaciers helicopters, Swiss Alpine Rescue, the Bern cantonal police, and the Valais police. The public prosecutor's office in Valais also participated in the investigation.
The cause of the fall remains unknown, and the investigation is ongoing. No further details on the cause of the accident or its contributing factors are available at this time.
Carlos Prieto, the Spanish government's delegate in Catalonia, has expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased mountaineer and also wished a speedy recovery for the injured companion.
It is worth noting that the Mönch peak is one of Switzerland's most iconic mountains, attracting hundreds of climbers each year who attempt to reach its summit.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in mountain climbing. Our thoughts are with the families of those affected by this tragedy.
[1] Source: Bernese Alpine Club, Swiss Alpine Rescue, Bern and Valais police.
- Despite the popularity of the Mönch peak for sports enthusiasts, the general-news of the recent accident involving a fall during descent has highlighted the risks associated with mountain climbing, serving as a reminder to all climbers.
- In the sports community, the accident on August 8, 2025, at the Mönch peak, has led to concerns about the safety of climbs, especially accidents such as the one that resulted in a 60-year-old Spanish man's death and injuries to his partner.
