Corpses released from glacier ice: glaciological and forensic aspects

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Abstract
Glaciological and forensic aspects of six corpses released from glacier ice during summer 1991 are discussed in detail. The times of immersion in glacier ice of fatally injured persons can vary from several years to several centuries. The corpses are transported along a flow line beneath the surface of the glacier and emerge on the surface only after reaching the ablation area. Immersion times of more than 1000 years are possible with corpses buried in stagnant or dead ice areas. Adipocere and mummification are characteristic changes to soft tissues and organs. The Homo tyrolensis found on Hauslabjoch (elevation 3200 m (10500 ft), Oetztal Alps, Austria) was determined to be 5000 years old.

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