Rila Mountains: Female tourist dies in fatal fall near Malovitsa Peak

A female tourist died following a fatal fall while descending from Malovitsa Peak in the Rila Mountains on August 22. According to the Mountain Rescue Service (PSS) of the Bulgarian Red Cross, the woman fell on a steep, grassy, and rocky slope and reportedly tumbled approximately 50 meters.

Emergency responders, including a medical helicopter and a military ‘Cougar’ helicopter from the Krumovo airbase, were deployed to the scene. A medical professional traveling with the group attempted to provide aid but determined the woman had already passed away due to severe traumatic brain injury, including a fracture at the base of the skull.

The medical helicopter was unable to land near the victim due to the difficult mountain terrain, which would have required a two-hour trek on foot. The military helicopter successfully reached the area, and rescuers eventually transported the body to the Malovitsa hut.