Tragedy struck in the French ski resort of Val d’Isère on February 13, 2024, when two British nationals, Stuart Leslie, 46, and Shaun Overy, 51, lost their lives in an avalanche. The pair were skiing off-piste with an instructor when they were caught in the avalanche, which followed a heavy snowfall from Storm Nils.
Rescue services discovered their bodies approximately 400 metres down the Manchet valley, in a stream. A third victim, a French national skiing alone above the group, also perished in the incident. Following routine protocol, a manslaughter investigation has been initiated by the CRS Alpes mountain rescue police to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
Both victims were well-regarded in their communities. Mr. Leslie served as a sales and marketing director for the Barratt Redrow construction company, known for his love of skiing, especially off-piste adventures. Mr. Overy operated a plumbing business in Wimbledon, southwest London.
Friends have expressed their sorrow over the loss. In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, Craig Hunter described Mr. Leslie as “a true legend.” He reflected on their shared experiences, stating, “He lived life to the absolute maximum — he packed 10 men’s lives into one.” Hunter reminisced about their adventures together, including travels across Europe and beyond, highlighting the vibrancy of Mr. Leslie’s life.
The avalanche occurred in the wake of recent severe weather, which had left the region with what authorities termed a “very unstable snow cover.” Cédric Bonnevie, Val d’Isère’s piste director, noted the uncertainty surrounding the specific cause of the avalanche, emphasizing the inherent dangers of skiing in such conditions.
As the investigation unfolds, the impact of this tragedy resonates deeply within the local community and among friends and family of the victims. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with off-piste skiing, particularly in unstable weather conditions.
