The search by helicopter for Canadian mountain runner Kalie McCrystal has been stopped after multiple aerial scans of the Italian side of the Matterhorn failed to find the 38-year-old athlete and lawyer from Squamish, B.C.
The helicopter operation was called off following a full day of aerial searches on Thursday that yielded no signs of her. McCrystal was last spotted on Tuesday near the Jean-Antoine Carrel hut, at an elevation of about 3,830 meters, heading towards the summit.
Initially, rescuers used a large air ambulance helicopter before switching to a smaller aircraft capable of maneuvering closer to the mountain’s steep rock faces and narrow gullies. However, no trace of McCrystal was found during these efforts.
The last confirmed sighting occurred when a mountain guide encountered McCrystal above the Carrel hut. According to Valerio Segor of the Valle d’Aosta mountain rescue service, McCrystal mentioned she was training to attempt a record ascent before disappearing from view.
The Matterhorn, standing at 4,478 meters, is one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps, straddling Italy and Switzerland.
McCrystal had been staying in the Cervinia area of northwestern Italy, preparing for a rapid climb and descent of the Matterhorn via the Lion Ridge route. Her disappearance led to an extensive search of the mountain, including steep gullies and cliff bands on both the Italian and Swiss sides.
Despite using a helicopter-mounted RECCO detector and attempting to locate a signal from McCrystal’s cellphone, search efforts did not yield any results. McCrystal, a prominent skyrunner in Canada, has a history of competing in challenging mountain races, including recent accomplishments on the Matterhorn.
While the helicopter search has been suspended, mountain guides familiar with the area continue to look for any clues. Rescuers are awaiting further information from the authorities to potentially resume a more targeted search.
Global Affairs Canada has been contacted for additional input, with further updates expected in the ongoing search for Kalie McCrystal.