Rescue teams in northern Italy have found a body believed to be that of missing British hiker Matthew Hall. He disappeared while hiking in the Alps near Chiavenna on 9 July.
The discovery was made on Wednesday evening near the Cross of Daloo, a mountain viewpoint above the Lombardy town where the 33-year-old from Hull had been staying. Hall had sent a photo of the spot to friends on the day he vanished.
The British hiker was last heard from via a text message saying he had taken a wrong turn during what was meant to be an eight-hour solo trek and was taking a rest.
Police confirmed that rescue teams located a body around 19:00 local time in a rocky crevice. It was close to where Hall sent his last message. Due to the challenging terrain, a helicopter assisted in the recovery.
Lieutenant Gim Toni De Masi said Hall’s mother arrived in Italy on Wednesday, with his father expected to arrive on Friday.
More than a dozen friends and colleagues had travelled to Chiavenna to support the search, which involved three helicopters, mountain rescue teams, police, and specialist drones.
Sam Jackson, a close friend, said the group had remained hopeful.
“We all absolutely loved him,” he told the BBC. “At least we are bringing him home – back to where he should be.”
Jackson also praised the people of Chiavenna for their support.
“They have found our pal. The Italian police, rescue workers and community here have been amazing.”
Hall, described as an experienced hiker with strong knowledge of mountain terrain, had started his trip on 5 July and was due to fly back to the UK on 12 July.
The UK Foreign Office confirmed it was providing support to Hall’s family and was in contact with local authorities.
