A World Cup skier and his girlfriend have been found dead.
Rescue teams found professional skier Jean Daniel Passion and his girlfriend Elisa Arlian dead on Mount Zerbion in Italy’s Aosta Valley. The couple, locked in a final embrace, had been buried under snow. Their tragic discovery sent shockwaves through the skiing world and devastated loved ones.
Jean Daniel Passion, a standout on Italy’s World Cup speed skiing team, made his mark with a 15th-place finish in the 2021 World Cup and 22nd at the 2022 World Championships. His girlfriend, Elisa Arlian, was equally dedicated—teaching elementary school in Saint-Marcel and working as a cross-country ski instructor.
When the couple didn’t return home, their families quickly reported them missing. Rescue teams acted fast. Three helicopters, along with mountain rescue, police, and firefighters, launched an intense search. Sadly, after hours of combing Mount Zerbion, they found the couple’s bodies.
Many people still can’t believe the tragic deaths of Jean Daniel Passion and Elisa Arlian. “How sad,” one person shared. “A true tragedy… a terrible way to die. Many blessings to their friends and grieving families.” Another added, “That’s heartbreaking. I’m praying for everyone who loved them.”
“May you both rest in eternal peace,” said a third, mourning the loss. A fourth commenter wrote, “What a horrific way to go. I’m so sorry for everyone involved.”
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of mountain climbing. In places like Mount Zerbion, weather can shift in seconds—turning a beautiful adventure into a deadly situation.
The Italian Winter Sports Federation confirmed a heartbreaking update: Jean Daniel Passion and Elisa Arlian died in a tragic mountain accident. The couple reportedly fell nearly 2,300 feet on Mount Zerbion. Investigators have yet to determine the exact cause of the fatal fall.
According to Italian news outlet RAI, the search mission faced serious challenges. “It took hours of aerial sweeps to locate them,” the report revealed. “There were no clear signs on the rocks showing where they had fallen.”
Authorities believe the couple may have slipped on packed snow or encountered unstable ground while crossing a narrow ridge between the mountain’s north and east sides.
Rescue teams found the couple after one of their cell phones pinged a signal. According to RAI, “The mountain they loved betrayed them—just steps from the summit.” When found, they were still locked in a final embrace, symbolizing their deep bond.
News of their tragic death quickly spread across social media, with many sharing a video report on X (formerly Twitter).
The Italian Winter Sports Federation expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Federation President Flavio Roda stated, “This is a terrible tragedy for the winter sports community, especially in the world of speed skiing.” He added, “We send our heartfelt condolences to the Pession family during this difficult time.”
A tragic mountain accident ended the lives of two young lovers who shared a passion for the peaks. Alberto Bertin, President of the Regional Council of Aosta Valley, offered his condolences. “We stand with their families, friends, and the entire sports community during this painful time,” he said.
This heartbreaking loss highlights the real dangers of winter sports. It also reflects the deep love so many hold for the mountains, despite the risks.
