Two Ski Tour Guides in Switzerland On Trial After Fatal Avalanche
13th August 2026
Two 18-year-old students died in the tragedy in March 2023 in the Bernese Oberland. They are charged with multiple counts of manslaughter through negligence. NEW
Archie Harvey from the UK and Emily Franciose from the USA were caught in an avalanche and killed whilst on a ski tour organised by a boarding school.
The prosecution accuses the mountain guide in charge chose a route that was too steep and dangerous for the descent.
The co-leader is alleged not to have intervened, despite having a say in the matter.
Both are accused of breaching their duty of care.
The area had a a ‘moderate’ avalanche risk – Level 2.
All were equipped with avalanche transceivers, probes and shovels.
We reported on the accident at the time on PlanetSKI:
Avalanche accident Image c/o Bern Cantonal Police.
The ski touring group was made up of two students, a mountain guide, a youth and sports leader and three other people.
The students came from the Ecole d’Humanité school in Hasliberg in the canton of Bern.
“We regret this terrible accident and are deeply saddened,” said the school in a statement at the time.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to all students, their families and relatives.”
The court is due to hand down its verdict on Friday.
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