Daniel Fernández Strauch, a prominent survivor of the infamous Uruguayan Air Force Flight #571 crash in the Andes, passed away on May 8, 2025, in Montevideo, Uruguay, at the age of 79. His story, along with that of his fellow survivors, has captured global attention for decades, inspiring books and films that recount their harrowing experience.
In 1972, at the age of 26, Fernández Strauch was one of the 16 survivors of the tragic crash that occurred on October 13, when the aircraft, carrying members of the Old Christians rugby club, crashed into the Andes Mountains. The crash claimed the lives of 13 passengers instantly, with others succumbing to injuries and harsh conditions in the days that followed. Ultimately, the survivors endured 72 days in extreme cold and isolation before being rescued between October 22 and 23.
Fernández Strauch's role during the ordeal was pivotal. As an agricultural engineer, he helped organize the survivors, ensuring they had food and support during their time in the mountains. His ability to maintain peace and tranquility among the group earned him respect and admiration from his fellow survivors. Gustavo Zerbino, another survivor, remembered him fondly as "a dear friend, a great father, and a great grandfather," highlighting his positive spirit and leadership.
The tragedy unfolded when the Fairchild 227 aircraft, en route from Montevideo to Santiago, Chile, crashed into the Andes due to poor weather conditions. As the survivors faced the harsh reality of their situation, they were forced to make unimaginable choices to stay alive, including resorting to cannibalism, consuming the bodies of their deceased friends. This aspect of their survival story has been one of the most painful and discussed elements of the tragedy.
Fernández Strauch was portrayed in the films "Alive" (1993) and "Society of the Snow" (2023), which dramatized the events of the crash and the survivors' struggle for survival. The latter film, directed by Juan Antonio Bayona, was nominated for an Oscar for Best International Film, further cementing the story of the Andes survivors in popular culture.
In a heartfelt tribute, Bayona described Fernández Strauch as a man with a "giant heart," emphasizing the difficult role he played during their time in the mountains. "In the mountains, he had to take on a very difficult role - as if there had been an easy one - and he did it because someone had to do it," Bayona remarked, reflecting on Fernández Strauch's leadership and humanity.
Fernández Strauch is the fourth survivor of the crash to pass away, following Javier Methol in 2015, José Luis Inciarte in 2023, and Álvaro Mangino in 2025. His death marks another poignant moment in the legacy of the survivors, who have shared their story of resilience and survival for over five decades.
After the crash, Fernández Strauch returned to Uruguay, where he married and became a father to three children. He often reflected on his experiences in the Andes, stating in an interview, "When I was in the mountains, my goal was to find my family, and that’s what I did. For me, it was the end." His life after the tragedy was marked by a commitment to sharing his story and the lessons learned from that harrowing experience.
The impact of the Andes tragedy continues to resonate, as it serves as a powerful reminder of human resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. The legacy of Daniel Fernández Strauch, alongside his fellow survivors, will always be remembered as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from around the world, with many recalling the profound lessons of survival, friendship, and the will to live that emerged from their ordeal. The story of the Andes survivors is not just one of tragedy, but also of hope and the enduring bonds formed under the most challenging circumstances.
In the wake of Fernández Strauch’s death, the world reflects on a story that transcends time, reminding us of the fragility of life and the strength found in community and shared experiences. His contributions to the narrative of survival will continue to inspire future generations.
