“We are deeply saddened, and our thoughts are with Sophie’s family as we offer our heartfelt condolences,” stated Walter Reusser, the CEO of Swiss-Ski’s sports division, in a release on Tuesday. The tragic incident occurred when the snowboarder, Sophie Hediger, along with a companion, ventured onto a closed black diamond slope on Monday afternoon, as reported by local authorities. Hediger was struck by an avalanche after departing from the restricted area, prompting her companion to alert rescue services. Approximately two hours later, she was found buried in the avalanche field. Despite initial efforts by a first responder to administer CPR, Hediger succumbed to her injuries at the accident site, according to police sources.
Hediger, a member of Switzerland’s national snowboard cross team, had a notable presence in Arosa, where freeriding was a cherished pursuit for her, as highlighted by Swiss-Ski. She participated in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, competing in the women’s snowboard cross event and the mixed team snowboard cross category. Displaying her talent, Hediger secured her first two World Cup podium finishes during the 2023-24 season. She clinched second place in St. Moritz, Switzerland, in January, followed by a third-place finish in Gudauri, Georgia, in February.
With aspirations of achieving success at the Ski Freestyle and Snowboard World Championships in Engadin, Switzerland, slated for March, Hediger’s untimely passing has deeply impacted the Swiss Ski community. Reusser expressed the profound sorrow felt within the Swiss Ski family following this tragic loss, casting a somber shadow over the holiday season. The CEO remarked, “We are immeasurably saddened by the tragic death of Sophie Hediger.”
ABC News’ Somayeh Malekian contributed to the coverage of this distressing event. The loss of Swiss Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger in an avalanche is a poignant reminder of the inherent risks associated with winter sports. Our hearts go out to Sophie’s loved ones during this difficult time.
The image accompanying this article captures Sophie Hediger of Team Switzerland in action during the Snowboard Mixed Team Cross Quarterfinals on Day 8 of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics at Genting Snow Park on February 12, 2022, in Zhangjiakou, China.
