On February 10, 2025, the search for two experienced hikers, Cristian Mauri and Paolo Bellazzi, came to a tragic conclusion as their bodies were found near the Caimi gully on Grignetta Mountain. The pair, both seasoned alpinists with deep familiarity of the area, had gone missing after embarking on their trek on February 8.
The search efforts spanned several days, during which adverse weather conditions caused significant challenges for rescuers. Temperature drops and heavy snowfalls turned the terrain treacherous, leading to the decision to suspend ground operations at times to avoid placing rescuers at risk. Once the weather improved slightly, helicopters equipped with specialized technologies resumed their flights to locate the missing men.
According to reports, the retrieval of one of the hikers' cellular phones played a pivotal role. The Alpine Rescue team employed drone technology with IMSI Catcher capabilities to triangulate signals from the devices. Finally, the Recco rescue system, known for its effectiveness in locating individuals buried under snow, helped officials pinpoint the exact location of the deceased. This equipment facilitated contact with at least one of the missing hikers, allowing search teams to focus their efforts on the Caimi gully.
Marco Anemoli, responsible for the rescue operations, shared insights on the weather's impact on their mission: "The weather conditions are prohibitive: heavy wet snow has fallen, and there’s considerable avalanche risk." Such warnings had to be taken seriously as the emergency responders navigated the hazardous environment.
Both Mauri and Bellazzi were well-prepared for their hike, accustomed to the demands of mountain excursions. They were last spotted around 9 am on Saturday, prior to when the deteriorated weather compromised their descent. Friends and relatives waited anxiously at the base camp as search efforts unfolded, hoping for good news amid the fear and uncertainty of what might have happened.
Despite their experience, the two hikers are reminders of the unpredictability of mountain weather. Less than an hour after beginning their descent, conditions worsened drastically, catching them off guard. Friends recounted how they had successfully made trips to Grignetta before, participating each occasion with enthusiasm. The sport was more than just enjoyment; it was part of their friendship and community.
The search and rescue operations saw the involvement of numerous teams, including the Coast Guard, fire brigade, and other rescue services, all convening at Piani Resinelli, the operational headquarters. Over the course of three harrowing days, numerous searches were conducted. The challenges presented by extreme weather required comprehensive strategies and significant teamwork.
Many local residents and community members followed the news closely. Their shock and grief over the loss of two dedicated outdoor enthusiasts were palpable as the community gathered to support the families. "Unfortunately, they were found dead, but at least it has put an end to the anguish of uncertainty about their fate," one report stated, reflecting the mixed emotions surrounding the tragic event.
The tragic fate of Cristian Mauri and Paolo Bellazzi emphasizes yet again the importance of safety when engaging with nature, especially during winter months, when conditions can change rapidly. Local outdoor organizations are taking this opportunity to urge hikers to stay informed through weather services, remain vigilant, and assess the potential risks involved before embarking on climbing expeditions.
Both men will be remembered for their adventurous spirits and the joy they brought to those around them. The loss has touched many, highlighting the deep love for the outdoors shared by residents and hikers alike.
One can only hope their tragedy serves as a reminder of the respect needed for nature’s power, encouraging others to make informed decisions when pursuing outdoor adventures.