A tragic accident occurred on Monday, April 7, 2025, in the Hautes-Pyrénées, where a member of the Compagnie républicaine de sécurité montagne (CRS) from Lannemezan and the alpinist he was trying to rescue lost their lives in a fatal fall. The incident took place in the Piau-Engaly sector, specifically on the steep walls of the Pic du Campbieil, as reported by La Dépêche.
The circumstances surrounding this tragic event remain unclear. According to the Hautes-Pyrénées prefecture, the CRS were dispatched to assist two alpinists who were in distress on a cliff face. One CRS member successfully reached the first alpinist, who was then airlifted to safety. However, during the rescue of the second alpinist, both the rescuer and the alpinist tragically fell to their deaths.
As investigations into the incident unfold, preliminary findings suggest that a technical failure or human error may have contributed to the deadly fall. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the fall occurred during the airlift process, which took place at an altitude exceeding 3,000 meters. The Police Nationale confirmed that the fall happened just as the second alpinist and rescuer were being hoisted up.
“This tragedy powerfully reminds us of the courage and selflessness of our rescue police officers who risk their lives daily to assist others in perilous terrain,” remarked the Police Nationale in a statement released via social media. Since the announcement of the rescuer's death, numerous tributes have poured in on social media, honoring his bravery and dedication.
According to reports, the deceased rescuer was approximately 50 years old, while the alpinist was around 60. The accident occurred around 5:30 PM in the commune of Aragnouet, in the Pic du Campbieil area. The prefecture stated that the rescuers had responded to the emergency call because two alpinists were struggling on the peak.
While one CRS member managed to save the first alpinist, the second rescuer and the second alpinist could not be airlifted and fell. The prefecture's initial statements indicated that both individuals “devised” before they could be rescued, but further investigation is needed to determine the precise circumstances that led to the fatal fall.
As the investigation continues, the Tarbes prosecutor's office has opened a formal inquiry to ascertain the exact details surrounding the tragedy. The investigation will be conducted by the brigade de recherche de gendarmerie of Bagnères-de-Bigorre, with support from the Toulouse research section and the high mountain gendarmerie platoon of the Hautes-Pyrénées.
In light of this incident, the Ministry of the Interior expressed condolences, stating, “Our family of mountain rescue is in mourning after learning of the death in service of Olivier, a CRS mountain officer from the Lannemezan detachment who was attempting to help climbers in difficulty.” They acknowledged the impact of this loss on both the families involved and the wider community of rescuers.
The Police Nationale reiterated their sympathies, stating, “Our sincerest thoughts go out to the family and loved ones of our colleague and the victim, as well as to all his grieving comrades.” This tragic event has highlighted the dangers faced by rescue services operating in mountainous regions, where conditions can change rapidly and unpredictably.
This incident is a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with mountain climbing and rescue operations. Mountain rescue teams often operate in challenging conditions, and the loss of life underscores the need for continued training and safety measures to protect both rescuers and those they aim to assist.
As the community comes to terms with this tragedy, it serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and bravery exhibited by those in rescue services. The families of both the rescuer and the alpinist are now left to grapple with their loss, and the wider community mourns the passing of two individuals who faced extreme peril in the name of helping others.
In conclusion, the events of April 7, 2025, stand as a solemn testament to the risks involved in mountain rescue operations and the sacrifices made by those who serve in these critical roles. As investigations continue, it is hoped that lessons will be learned to prevent such tragedies in the future.
