69-year-old tourist falls 30 meters down a slope in Mayrhofen

The 69-year-old is a German citizen and, according to current findings, was staying in the Mayrhofen-Hippach region in the Zillertal as a tourist. Further personal details, such as his home city in Bavaria or the purpose of his trip, were initially not released by the authorities.

Rescue and medical care

Police were conducting investigations on Thursday into the exact course of the fall. According to initial findings, the man was out in the open when he lost his footing on the sloping terrain.

According to police, the scene of the operation was located in a section of terrain that was difficult to access, which made the recovery more difficult. In addition to the Red Cross, mountain rescue personnel were also involved in the rescue operation.

Advice from the emergency services

Mayrhofen is a heavily frequented tourist municipality in the Zillertal and attracts hikers as well as winter sports guests year-round. Steep meadows, forest edges and stream beds characterize the terrain around the town and pose particular risks in wet conditions or darkness.

In this context, the authorities once again pointed out the dangers that nighttime walks away from lit paths in alpine surroundings can bring. Local helpers advise that even short trips to the toilet or to one's accommodation should not be undertaken without sturdy footwear and a light source.

The Mayrhofen police inspection set up a contact point for relatives and witnesses to take possible information about the circumstances of the accident. The investigations into the exact cause of the accident are ongoing.

The incident is part of a series of serious mountain accidents reported from the Tyrolean Alps in recent weeks. In most cases, darkness, wet conditions and a lack of familiarity with the terrain played a significant role.

In general, the following applies to mountain hikes in Tyrol: unfamiliar terrain, changing weather and decreasing surefootedness at an advanced age increase the risk. Holidaymakers should, especially at dusk and at night, stay on marked trails and inform the innkeeper or the landlord when they leave the house.

Investigations and context

Maps and information about the area around the accident site are being compiled in the municipality of Finkenberg, which borders Mayrhofen. Locals there also warn of steep drops along the hiking trails.

The case is now being examined by police and the Innsbruck public prosecutor's office for any possible third-party fault. At present, investigators assume a tragic accident.