Florida woman dies in 300-meter fall in Italian Dolomites

Michelle Alejandra Rubio-Leiva, a 36-year-old communications professional from Miami, Florida, died after falling approximately 300 meters (1,000 feet) in the Italian Dolomites. The accident occurred on Saturday, October 17, while she was vacationing with her family near the Forcella Pordoi trail in the Sella group.

According to local police and emergency services, Rubio-Leiva and her sister had stepped away from the marked, safe hiking path to reach a steep, exposed ledge to capture a panoramic photograph. She reportedly lost her footing on the unstable terrain and plunged into the canyon below.

The Trentino Alpine and Cave Rescue Services deployed a specialist team and a rescue helicopter to the high-altitude site, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although rescuers reached the location, Rubio-Leiva was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family members were airlifted to the nearby town of Canazei.

Authorities noted that the hiking area is characterized by steep inclines, loose gravel, and falling rocks. Italian Alpine Rescue reported that more than 80 people have died in the Dolomites so far in 2026.