Investigation after British skier dies following collision in French Alps


A British woman has died after colliding with a stationary skier on the Aiguille Rouge mountain in Les Arcs, French Alps. The 62-year-old victim was skiing on a “well-groomed” black run when she lost control of her skis and hit a 35-year-old British man who was stationary on the slope. The man has suffered a broken leg. The incident took place at around 10:30 am on Tuesday and emergency services attended the scene. Unfortunately, the woman died shortly after due to traumatic shock.

The Les Arc resort, in south-eastern France, is working with the local authorities in the investigation of this tragic accident. Phillippe Janin, the director of slope safety at the resort, revealed that both the skiers involved in the collision were wearing helmets. Black runs are extremely difficult slopes and recommended for expert skiers only.

According to the Domaines Skiables de France, an association that represents ski area operators in France, about 10 traumatic deaths occur each year on French slopes. Approximately 50% of these fatalities are caused by collisions with objects or other skiers. A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office stated that they are providing support to the family of the deceased and are in contact with the local authorities.

An investigation is underway to identify the precise circumstances of the accident by the local prosecutor Benoît Bachelet. The identity of both skiers involved has not been released, as their families are still being informed of the tragic incident

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