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A snowstorm in Chilean Patagonia has claimed the lives of five people, including a British woman. Victoria Bond, a 40-year-old public relations consultant from Cornwall, was confirmed by Chilean authorities to be among those who died in Torres del Paine National Park, a popular destination in southern Chile.
The group of casualties included two German and two Mexican nationals alongside Ms. Bond, according to Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate of the Magallanes region. Their bodies were discovered on Tuesday following the severe weather event.
Ms. Bond had been leading public relations for Visit Isles of Scilly for over six years. The organization described her as being on a “trip of a lifetime” with friends in Argentina and Chile. She was hiking when the snowstorm struck, causing her to become trapped. Andrew Sells, chairman of Visit Isles of Scilly, expressed the organization’s deep sorrow over her loss, highlighting her tireless dedication to promoting the Isles and calling her “an integral part” of the team.
Colleagues paid heartfelt tributes to Ms. Bond, with Euan Rodger, executive vice-chairman of Visit Isles of Scilly, calling her “a true joy to work alongside” who brought “life, energy, and an infectious enthusiasm” to every project. Adrian Jones, who worked with her on the Roseland Festival in Cornwall, remembered her as “lovable, witty and creative,” noting that she was a proactive individual who “had ideas and saw them through.” He said her passing would “leave a huge hole in Portscatho,” where she often spent time despite living in Newquay.
Chilean officials confirmed that the search for victims had concluded, shifting their focus to the repatriation of the deceased and coordinating with foreign consulates. The country’s president, Gabriel Boric Font, praised the efforts of search and rescue teams who operated amid “intense” snowfall and winds reaching up to 118 mph (190 km/h). In a message posted on social media, he extended his condolences to the families and assured that Chilean authorities would provide support during this difficult period.
Meanwhile, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office stated it was assisting the family of the deceased British woman and was in contact with local officials in Chile
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