Coroner Rules British Skiers’ Avalanche Deaths in France Accidental

A coroner has determined that a British mother and her son died in a “tragic accident” following an avalanche in France. Kate Vokes, aged 54, and Archie Vokes, aged 22, were caught in the avalanche last December while in an off-piste zone close to the French ski resort of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains. Coroner Alison Much stated that the Manchester residents were “experienced skiers.” Stockport Coroners Court was informed that French authorities would not pursue any action, and no individuals would face prosecution concerning their deaths. A joint inquest determined that their deaths on 28 December were accidental, resulting from asphyxia. Local authorities had previously indicated that the avalanche originated at an approximate altitude of 2,300 metres (7,546 ft) and descended for about 400 metres (1,312 ft). Officials suggested it could have been set off by another group of skiers located at a greater height. Police in nearby Chamonix initiated a manslaughter investigation in December; however, the inquest was informed that no prosecutions would occur. The coroner conveyed, “The view of the French authorities is that it appears this was a tragic accident.” Although the Vokes family did not attend court, the coroner mentioned that relatives characterized the two as “very experienced skiers who were familiar with that area.” Offering condolences to the family, the coroner remarked that the pair were “enjoying an activity that it’s clear they were extremely experienced at and gained a significant amount of enjoyment from.”