Two German climbers died after falling during a mountaineering tour in Vals, Tyrol (district of Innsbruck-Land). Following a multi-hour search operation, their bodies were recovered on Tuesday afternoon. The victims, a 28-year-old woman and her 34-year-old companion, had been hiking near the Geraer Hütte on Monday and were reported missing around midnight. The cause of the fall remains unclear, according to the alpine police: “Something happened.”

A thunderstorm that developed in the Wipptal region on Monday is not believed to be directly connected to the incident. Both climbers were properly equipped, and the climbing route is classified as moderately difficult. Investigations are ongoing.

When the pair failed to return to the hut or their vehicle by evening, concerns were raised. On Tuesday morning, mountain rescue teams launched a search mission, with two police helicopters also involved. The bodies were discovered around 2:00 p.m. at the northern base of the Hüttengrat rock face.