One American, 2 Austrian climbers presumed dead after avalanche in Banff
BANFF, Alta. — Three renowned mountain climbers are presumed dead after a large avalanche in Alberta’s Banff National Park.
Outdoor apparel company The North Face confirmed Thursday that American Jess Roskelley and Austrians David Lama and Hansjorg Auer disappeared while attempting to climb the east face of Howse Peak on the Icefields Parkway. They were reported overdue on Wednesday.
The North Face said the three professional climbers are members of its Global Athlete Team.
“They are missing, and local search and rescue has assumed the worst,” The North Face said in a statement. “We are doing everything we can to support their families, friends and the climbing community during this difficult time.”