Overview
- Rescue teams found 36 members of three haredi families at about 2,300 metres in the Sölden area after the group left a marked forest trail and reached exposed, steep terrain.
- Two helicopters and ground crews responded after two group members called emergency services around 17:15; rescuers hoisted 14 people, including the youngest children, and escorted the other 22 down on foot.
- Authorities reported no injuries and said the hikers lacked basic mountain equipment and appropriate footwear, noting the presence of baby carriages increased the danger and complicated evacuation.
- Local rescue commander Jakob Fiegl described the incident as a common error by inexperienced hikers and said some individuals were found dangerously close to sheer drops.
- Officials indicated the tourists, who included citizens of Belgium, Austria, the United States and the United Kingdom, will likely be charged the multi‑thousand euro cost of the operation and consular interest could follow.