Man Missing for 22 Years in Avalanche Finally Found

The body of Bill Stampfl, a climber who disappeared in an avalanche on Peru’s highest mountain, Huascaran, 22 years ago, has been found. This discovery brings closure to a mystery that has haunted his family for over two decades.

In 2002, Stampfl was climbing the 22,000-foot Huascaran when disaster struck. Despite knowing he was likely dead, his family could never be certain without his body. Stampfl’s daughter, Jennifer, shared with The New York Times that she had mostly accepted his death but still dreamed he might be alive in Peru, suffering from amnesia.

The breakthrough came when Stampfl’s son, Joseph, received a call from a climber named Ryan Cooper. Cooper, who was scaling Huascaran, had stumbled upon Stampfl’s body, frozen yet largely intact.

Key Points:

• Discovery Details: Cooper found the body on June 27, during his descent from Huascaran. The body was positioned defensively, suggesting Stampfl was shielding himself from the avalanche.

• Identification: The body was atop the ice, appearing mummified. A fanny pack with Stampfl’s ID card and passport confirmed his identity.

• Family Notification: Cooper, moved by finding the body with its wedding ring still on, contacted his wife to help locate Stampfl’s family. Within days, he was speaking to Joseph.

Cooper’s find was sheer coincidence. Bad weather had forced his group to take an older, less-traveled route down the mountain, leading to the discovery. Initially disappointed about not reaching the summit, Cooper later felt his true purpose was to find Bill.

Stampfl’s body has been recovered and will be cremated before returning to his family. His wife, Janet, expressed her relief and gratitude to CBS, saying, “We all just dearly loved my husband. He was one of a kind. We’re very grateful we can bring his body home to rest.”

This discovery not only brings closure to Stampfl’s family but also serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of mountain climbing and the enduring love of those left behind.

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