Emergency crews in northern Italy are continuing the search for a missing German tourist last seen in the mountainous area of Valchiavenna, in the province of Sondrio. The man, 66, had been observed alone in recent days near Uschione di Chiavenna, a small town nearly 800 meters above sea level.
Unusual behavior raised no early alarm
Residents reported seeing the man barefoot, with bells attached to his pants, moving through the area while meditating and praying. He appeared to be camping in various spots, but did not disturb anyone.
As his presence suddenly stopped, and his parked car remained in the same spot for several days with his backpack and boots nearby, locals became concerned and alerted the Carabinieri.
Authorities traced the vehicle’s license plate in an attempt to identify the missing German tourist. They also contacted the German Consulate to determine if he has relatives in Germany. According to investigators, the man had not been seen for at least several days before the alarm was raised.
Widespread search efforts continue
Search teams were activated on the evening of the report. A helicopter from the Malpensa fire brigade in Varese flew over the area, but detected no cellphone signal. Officials say it’s unclear if the tourist had a phone with him or if it was turned off.
On the ground, the effort involves firefighters, members of the Chiavenna Alpine Rescue station, and personnel from the Guardia di Finanza in Madesimo. Crews scoured the surrounding woods and mountain paths until nightfall, but found no sign of the man.
Search operations are set to resume at dawn.
