British Pensioner Dies in Italian Alps Ice Climbing Tragedy
A 72-year-old British pensioner has tragically died while ice wall climbing in the Italian Alps. Stephen Lismore encountered severe difficulties while descending a rock face with a companion during a climb on Saturday. Officials involved in the rescue operation have disclosed that he mistakenly identified an opening in the ice wall as a viable route down and climbed into it, only to be struck by freezing water from rapids.
Fatal Descent in Sub-Zero Conditions
Trapped in sub-zero temperatures, Lismore was unable to climb out and is believed to have succumbed to hypothermia, although an investigation is currently underway to determine the precise cause of death. The incident occurred at a renowned ice climbing location in Lillaz, near Cogne, with his friend observing helplessly from above. Guidebooks often describe the three-tiered, 150-meter waterfalls as stunning, as they freeze over in winter, creating a popular adventure destination for climbers.
Rescue Efforts Amid Darkness and Confusion
Video footage provided to the Daily Mail shows alpine rescue teams arriving at the site via helicopter, with the cascading water visible in the background as they worked to recover the man's body. A rescuer informed the Daily Mail: 'The victim was in a double cord with a companion at the top of the waterfall. He was climbing down when we think he mistakenly entered an aperture in the ice wall and was then overcome by the ice cold water.' The rescuer added that at this stage, it remains unclear whether Lismore drowned or died from hypothermia due to the water, with an autopsy expected to clarify this.
His companion raised the alarm, and initially, rescuers believed it was a simple cord-stuck incident. However, upon arrival, the true nature of the tragedy became apparent. The rescuer noted: 'The conditions were good; we just think he was confused because it was dark at the time, and this added to the difficulty of the rescue operation as well.'
Second Fatality in the Area This Year
Saturday's fatality marks the second death of a person while ice climbing in the area this year. Last month, a French thrill-seeker died after falling more than 10 meters (30 feet). An FCDO spokesperson stated: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Italy.' The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with ice climbing, even in conditions described as good, highlighting the importance of caution and proper guidance in such extreme environments.
