The group aimed to ascend via the Tatarka Route, but according to rescuers, they lacked the necessary equipment and experience.
The incident began on Saturday morning when the Slovakian Mountain Rescue Service received an emergency call from the Polish group, who had become stranded near the summit. The group’s leader had fallen, leaving the others stranded and unable to continue without him.
Due to high winds, a rescue helicopter was unable to assist, prompting two ground rescue teams to head to the site. Rescuers first located the leader’s body, who had sustained fatal injuries from the fall. Nearby, they found another group member suffering from hypothermia and administered first aid.
After advancing another 300 meters, the team reached the remaining two group members, who were unable to move. Both were also given first aid and, using rope techniques, were safely brought down to the Tetmajer Pass, then transported by vehicle to Stary Smokovec.
The rescue operation was hindered by strong winds and icy conditions on the rocky slopes. The deceased climber’s body was eventually airlifted on Sunday as weather conditions improved. The cause of the accident is under investigation by Slovakian police.
(jh)
Source: PAP, TVN Meteo