Local sources from Peru: The Associated Press, infobae.
UK coverage: ITV News.
The body of American mountaineer William Stampfl, who went missing 22 years ago while attempting to climb Mount Huascaran in Peru, has been discovered by police. Stampfl’s body, preserved by the ice and freezing temperatures, was found by a group of mountaineers on July 5th at an altitude of 5200 meters in the dangerous area known as Base Camp 1. The discovery came as a shock to Stampfl’s family, who had believed that he would never be found. Stampfl was climbing with his friends Matthew Richardson and Steve Erskine, with Erskine’s body found shortly after the avalanche. Richardson’s body is still missing.
Stampfl’s daughter, Jennifer, received an unexpected call from a man named Ryan Cooper, who had stumbled upon her father’s mummified body while descending the mountain. Cooper sent a photograph of Stampfl’s driver’s license, which confirmed his identity. The body was found wearing mountaineering gear and a fanny pack containing personal belongings, including a passport, camera, credit card, and glasses. Remarkably, Stampfl still had his gold wedding ring on his finger.
To recover the body, Stampfl’s family enlisted the help of Peruvian high mountain guide Eric Raúl Albino and his rescue team. On July 4th, they began the ascent of Mount Huascaran, facing treacherous conditions and the constant threat of avalanches. After a nine-hour climb, they located the body on July 5th. The mummified corpse was in good condition, with its mountaineering clothes and equipment still intact.
Stampfl’s widow, Janet Stampfl-Raymer, described her husband as a kind and humble man who loved God and the mountains. She expressed gratitude for being able to bring his body home so he can rest. Stampfl’s remains were taken to a morgue in Yungay and will be transferred to Lima for cremation and repatriation to the United States.
Mount Huascaran, Peru’s highest peak, has witnessed numerous accidents over the years. Climate change has affected the mountain range, with a significant loss of ice coverage. Stampfl’s discovery serves as a reminder of the dangers of mountaineering and the unpredictable nature of these expeditions. The recovery of Richardson’s remains is still pending, leaving his family with unanswered questions and a lingering sense of loss.
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