Cruise Passenger, 36, Dead and Another Injured After Falling During Hike in Alaska Mountains

Cruise Tragedy Strikes in Alaska: One Passenger Dead, Another Injured After Hiking Mishap

A recent hiking trip turned tragic for two cruise ship passengers visiting Alaska, with one losing their life and the other sustaining injuries in a fall. The incident occurred on the Mount Roberts trail near Juneau, the Alaska State Troopers confirmed in a press release on Wednesday, Sept. 17.

The Alaska State Troopers received a distress call on Sept. 16, 2025, at around 8:10 p.m. reporting that two adult males had fallen from the Mount Roberts trail and slid down the steep mountainside. While one of the men managed to be extracted with minor injuries by the Juneau Mountain Rescue, the other, identified as 36-year-old Britian Pool from Texas, tragically succumbed to his injuries sustained during the fall.

Authorities disclosed that drones were instrumental in locating Pool’s body further down the mountain. Following standard procedures, Pool’s remains were transferred to the State Medical Examiner’s Office, and his next of kin was duly notified. The SEADOGS and Capital City Fire/Rescue also played significant roles in the search and rescue operations.

In light of this grim episode, the Alaska Department of Public Safety and the Juneau Police Department have been approached for additional insights into the circumstances surrounding the hiking mishap. The spokesperson for the Troopers, Tess Williams, revealed to the Associated Press that one of the men made a distress call to 911 seeking assistance during the ordeal.

The unfortunate event took place as the pair inadvertently strayed onto a wrong path near a tram that connects the downtown area, serving as a point of departure for cruise ships, to a popular tourist spot on the mountainside. Adding to the challenge, the weather conditions at the time were described as foggy with light rain, contributing to a slippery and wet terrain off the designated trail.

This distressing incident echoes another found earlier in the year when a cruise ship passenger, Marites Buenafe, went missing in the same vicinity after indicating her intention to hike the Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau. Local authorities and rescue teams had launched extensive search operations before tragically finding Buenafe’s body after two days.

The recent case has once again highlighted the risks associated with outdoor activities, especially in unfamiliar terrains where weather conditions can also play a crucial role in ensuring safety. As investigations continue into the circumstances leading to the fatal fall, it is imperative for all travellers, especially cruise passengers exploring new destinations, to exercise caution and adhere to designated trails and safety guidelines.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unforeseen dangers that can accompany recreational pursuits in nature, underscoring the importance of preparedness, awareness, and adherence to safety protocols. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the individuals affected by this heartbreaking tragedy as they navigate this difficult time.

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This revised article retains the essential details while presenting the information in a structured and engaging narrative, focusing on the sequence of events and precautions for outdoor activities.