Two British nationals tragically died in an avalanche while skiing in the Val d’Isère resort in France on February 13, 2024. The victims, identified as Stuart Leslie, 46, and Shaun Overy, 51, were part of a group of four skiing off-piste with an instructor when the avalanche struck. Rescue teams discovered their bodies approximately 400 metres down the Manchet valley, in a stream. A third skier, a French national, also perished in the incident.
Both men were known for their vibrant lives and ambitions. Mr. Leslie was a sales and marketing director for Barratt Redrow construction company, while Mr. Overy managed a plumbing business in Wimbledon, southwest London. Friends and family have shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting their adventurous spirits. In a tribute on social media, Craig Hunter, a close friend of Mr. Leslie, described him as “a true legend” who “lived life to the absolute maximum.”
The avalanche followed severe weather conditions in the region due to Storm Nils, which left behind fresh snow and created what authorities described as a “very unstable snow cover.” Cédrick Bonnevie, the piste director for Val d’Isère, noted that the cause of the avalanche remains unclear.
Investigation Underway
A manslaughter investigation has been initiated by the CRS Alpes mountain rescue police, which is standard procedure for fatal skiing accidents. This investigation aims to determine the circumstances surrounding the avalanche and the safety measures in place at the time.
The tragic loss of Mr. Leslie and Mr. Overy has resonated deeply within their communities. Friends have expressed their sorrow over the untimely deaths, reflecting on the joyous moments and memories they shared. Mr. Hunter’s tribute emphasized the richness of their friendship, stating, “We shared endless laughs, unforgettable memories, and our dreams that were coming to reality.”
As the investigation unfolds, the local skiing community mourns the loss of two prominent individuals who embraced life with passion and zeal.
