Mountain Biker Andreas Tonelli D+es in Tr+gic Fall from over 600 feet Italian Alps

Professional mountain biker Andreas Tonelli has d+ed after falling over 600 feet while riding near Piz Duleda in the Italian Alps on Tuesday, July 15. He was 48.

According to Italian outlet L’Unione Sarda, Tonelli had set out alone on a challenging route in the Vallunga area above Val Gardena but failed to return by nightfall. 

Authorities were alerted around 9:00 p.m., and his body was later discovered at 1:00 a.m. by a rescue helicopter crew in a steep ravine. His remains were recovered the following day.

The Carabinieri, Italy’s national police, are investigating the incident.

Tonelli had posted a final Instagram Story at 7:15 p.m. that evening, smiling with his bike on his shoulders after reaching 9,530 feet on the Piz Duleda peak in the Puez-Odle Nature Park. The story has since been deleted.

Originally from South Tyrol, Tonelli grew up in the Dolomites and later left an office job to pursue extreme mountain biking full-time. He gained a following on social media by sharing daring stunts and breathtaking alpine rides.

Outdoor brand Norrøna, which had named Tonelli an ambassador, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt Instagram tribute.

“It is with deep sorrow that we share the news that professional mountain biker, true gentleman, and Norrøna ambassador Andreas Tonelli lost his life in a biking accident,” the company wrote. “We will remember his big smile and his deep love for mountain biking, for nature, and for the friendships forged out there.”

Fans flooded the tribute post with condolences.

“It was an honor for me to share the greatest adventure of our lives with him on Cerro Mercedario this year. We will miss you, Andreas❤️,” one wrote.

Another added: “Andreas was among the most positive and passionate humans I’ve ever met. My thoughts are with his family and close ones.”

In a past interview with Norrøna, Tonelli named the Dolomites and Norway’s Lofoten Islands as his favorite places in the world.