The remains of US climber Mallory Geis have been found by rescuers following an avalanche on one of the world’s highest mountains, according to local authorities.
Geis was part of a 10‑person expedition that was climbing Pakistan’s Broad Peak, which sits on the China‑Pakistan border, when the avalanche struck on Thursday.
US media identified Geis as a 39‑year‑old from San Antonio, Texas.
Two other bodies – those of Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy from Oman and Pur Bahadur Gurung from Nepal – have also been identified.
The bodies were airlifted by helicopter to hospitals for official identification procedures, according to the Information Department of Gilgit Baltistan.
Initially the Alpine Club of Pakistan announced that four bodies had been located, but later clarified that they had found two bodies and a body part; a body that remains unlocated was also reported.
Rescuers reported spotting additional casualties via aerial drones, but weather and terrain issues delayed a full assessment and are expected to take several hours.
Rescue helicopters from the Pakistan army, carrying additional personnel and equipment, have been dispatched to aid the search.
In the wake of the disaster, the Alpine Club stated prayers for the safety of all climbers and solidarity with families and the wider mountaineering community.
Led by Nepal-born mountaineer Nirmal Purja, the expedition included a number of prominent climbers such as Kili Pemba Sherpa, known for summiting Mount Everest 15 times, and Yemen‑trained Pur Bahadur Gurung, who is close to completing the 14‑peak challenge.
Broad Peak, which first saw successful ascent in 1957, has claimed many lives over the years, with 2013 marking one of the deadliest years with six fatalities reported.
