Ingrid Daniela Vera Figueroa died while climbing one of the largest and most active volcanoes in Chile with friends to celebrate her 42nd birthday
A climber has died after she plunged 2,000ft down a volcano during an ascent to mark her 42nd birthday.
Ingrid Daniela Vera Figueroa had set out with a group of friends to tackle one of the largest and most active volcanoes in Chile when the accident occurred at around 3pm on May 17.
Just hours before her death, the mum-of-two posted a birthday message on social media that foreshadowed her tragic fall. Ahead of setting off for her climb up Llaima Volcano, she said: “It’s three in the morning and we’re finishing packing our backpacks to ascend Llaima.
“I hope God accompanies me on this wonderful day, on which I’m turning 42 and am super happy.” She added, ominously: “Yes, I have a little uncertainty about what’s going to happen.”
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Ingrid, who worked as school governor at Alexander Graham Bell School in Villarrica City, plunged to her death from a height of around 2,000ft (600m) while taking photos on the descent.
She reportedly released her ice pick, lost her balance, possibly exacerbated by strong winds, and slipped and fell down a steep ravine. Rescue efforts were hampered by severe weather, with strong winds preventing a rescue helicopter from reaching the site.
Ingrid’s death was confirmed that evening, but her body could not be recovered until Monday morning at around 6:30am due to continuing poor conditions.
A joint operation involving police, firefighters, volunteers, and representatives from the National Forest Corporation (Conaf) successfully retrieved her remains.
Conaf director Héctor Tillería said the hiking group did not register with the park authorities or Carabineros beforehand, contrary to protocol.
He warned of adverse weather this week, with sub-zero temperatures and demanding high-mountain conditions, and urged all climbers to register properly for safety.
A school spokesperson, where Ingrid served as governor, called her a “responsible, kind, committed” mother. The community offered condolences to her husband, two children, family and friends.
Volcán Llaima, one of Chile’s most active volcanoes at over 3,000 metres, is a popular but challenging destination for experienced hikers.
Authorities continue to investigate the precise circumstances of the fall.
