Riccardo Pozzobon, a 41-year-old Italian geologist from the University of Padua, has been declared dead after falling into a narrow meltwater channel on Alaska’s Mendenhall Glacier during a research mission. Alaska authorities confirmed the end of the search following failed rescue efforts.
Pozzobon had traveled to Alaska on August 26 and was scheduled to return to Italy the following weekend. On September 2, he slipped while filling a water bottle and fell into a fast-moving stream that led to a two-foot-wide vertical ice crevasse.
Despite the efforts of his two colleagues and a specialized mountain rescue team, dangerous conditions prevented a recovery. Authorities later determined the site was too hazardous to continue the operation.
The Italian geologist, who had been studying glacial and planetary geology, leaves behind his wife, young son, parents, and sister in Selvazzano Dentro, near Padua.
Tributes from Italy’s scientific community
Pozzobon was recognized for his work with the European Space Agency’s Pangea program, which prepares astronauts to identify geological formations during space missions. His research on lava tubes, natural tunnels formed by flowing lava, contributed to better understanding potential habitats on the moon.
Professor Matteo Massironi, a colleague at the University of Padua, described his work as fundamental and his loss as a significant blow to the scientific community.
Francesco Sauro, another geologist at the university, called him a generous and passionate researcher. Nicola Surian, director of the Department of Geosciences, noted that Pozzobon’s passing had left a deep personal and professional void.
The Italian Geological Society expressed condolences, describing Pozzobon as a warm, dedicated scientist who made lasting contributions to planetary sciences. A fundraising campaign has been launched to support his family.
Second fatality on glacier highlights growing dangers
Pozzobon’s identity was officially confirmed by Alaska authorities. With the search now suspended, attention has shifted to honoring his legacy and supporting his loved ones.
His death is the second fatal incident on the Mendenhall Glacier in the same week. A 69-year-old hiker from Arizona was found dead after disappearing on August 31. His body was discovered the following day in nearby waters.
The Mendenhall Glacier, a 13-mile stretch of ice near Juneau, remains one of Alaska’s most visited natural sites. Rapid glacial retreat in recent years has made its meltwater channels and crevasses increasingly dangerous.
In August, a glacial lake outburst at Suicide Basin triggered record flooding, with the Mendenhall River reaching 16.65 feet, its highest level on record.
