Polish Tourist and Firefighter Dies After 200‑Metre Fall in Slovakia’s High Tatras

On 13–14 July 2026 a 40‑year‑old Polish tourist fell roughly 200 metres from the Black Peak (Czarny Szczyt) in the High Tatras of Slovakia. He was climbing an unmarked route without proper climbing equipment or safety ropes. After losing contact with his partner, she reported the incident and a rescue operation was launched. The Slovak Mountain Rescue Service (HZS) dispatched a helicopter, which located the victim and confirmed fatal injuries; his body was transferred to the rescue station in Stary Smokovec. The deceased was a member of the Toruń Fire Brigade (PSP Toruń), and his death has been mourned by his colleagues. The rescue team successfully evacuated the survivor.

The incident was reported by multiple Slovak and Polish media outlets, confirming the lack of equipment and the dangerous terrain as contributing factors.