Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Bergwacht Explains Its Crisis Intervention After Fatal Alpine Fall Involving Teens

The KID team focuses on the first hours after trauma, using clear language to help witnesses regain a sense of control.

Overview

  • A 14-year-old died on Sunday below the Laubeneck summit during a hike from Unterammergau, witnessed by his 13-year-old friend from the same district.
  • Rescuers brought the 13-year-old down to the valley, where Bergwacht’s crisis intervention service provided acute psychosocial support.
  • PSNV-B lead Robert Weissacher said KID Berg deploys primarily in the immediate aftermath, typically in the first hours and sometimes into the following day.
  • Helpers begin with a simple assurance of presence, communicate honestly about deaths or severe injuries, and avoid platitudes such as telling someone it will be fine.
  • KID Berg aims to restore decision-making capacity, build a nearby support network, prevent affected people from traveling home alone, and prepare families for media attention, while responders themselves work to manage the emotional strain of such missions.