Scottish Ski Instructor Killed in Argentine Avalanche

Tragic Accident Claims Life of Experienced Skier

A Scottish ski instructor has tragically died in an avalanche while skiing in Argentina. The incident occurred on Wednesday, August 10th, 2023, at the Las Leñas ski resort in the Andes Mountains.

The victim, identified as 32-year-old Hamish MacInnes, was a highly experienced skier and had been working as an instructor at Las Leñas for the past three seasons. He was reportedly skiing off-piste with a group of clients when the avalanche occurred.

Avalanche Caught Skiers by Surprise

According to witnesses, the avalanche was triggered by a group of skiers who were skiing above MacInnes and his clients. The avalanche swept MacInnes and one of his clients down the mountain, burying them under the snow.

Rescue teams were quickly dispatched to the scene and were able to locate and extract MacInnes and his client. However, MacInnes had sustained serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The other skier who was caught in the avalanche was injured but is expected to survive.

Investigation into Avalanche Underway

An investigation into the avalanche is currently underway. Authorities are trying to determine what caused the avalanche and whether any safety protocols were violated.

Las Leñas ski resort has been closed temporarily while the investigation is ongoing.

Safety Concerns Raised

The accident has raised concerns about the safety of off-piste skiing at Las Leñas. Some skiers have complained that the resort does not do enough to mitigate the risk of avalanches.

Resort officials say they are committed to safety and are reviewing their avalanche safety protocols.

Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Instructor

The Scottish ski community is mourning the loss of MacInnes. He was a well-respected and popular instructor who will be deeply missed.

A memorial service for MacInnes is planned for next week in his hometown of Edinburgh.