Snowboarder Sophie Hediger Killed in Avalanche

26-year-old Swiss Snowboarder Sophie Hediger died in an avalanche in Arosa, Switzerland on December 23. 

Hediger was reportedly riding with a friend when the avalanche hit. Per the Hediger family's request, they have not been identified. While the friend called emergency services quickly, it took two hours to locate the buried Hediger, thus rescuers were unable to resuscitate her. The area they were riding in had been hit recently by heavy snowfall, and the avalanche risk was very high.

Hediger competed in snowboard cross at the 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing along two podium finishes at World Cup Snowcross events during the 2023-24 season. 

Our condolences go out to all those affected by this tragic incident. It is a reminder that not even the pros exempt from avalanche risk. Always pay attention to risk warnings and changing snow and weather conditions.