Holiday in Italy Ends with a Fall: American Tourist Falls 300 Meters

The 36‑year‑old American Michaelle Alejandra Rubio Leiva, who was vacationing in Italy's world‑famous Dolomites, lost her life while trying to take a landscape photo. It was reported that the tourist, who was in the area with her family, lost her balance on the edge of a cliff and fell approximately 300 metres down.

The accident occurred at an altitude of 2,750 metres.

The accident took place on 17 October on the Forcella Pordoi hiking trail above the town of Canazei in Italy's Trentino region. It was reported that at an altitude of about 2,750 metres, Leiva stepped off the marked trail to view the scenery and fell, sustaining serious injuries.

Rescue teams reached the area by helicopter.

Following a report from nearby hikers, Trentino Mountain Rescue teams and helicopter‑borne medical personnel were dispatched to the scene. The teams on site determined that the woman, who had fallen from an approximate height of 300 metres (985 feet), had lost her life.

Rescue teams transported Leiva's family to a safe area by helicopter. The deceased tourist's body was also removed from the region with helicopter assistance. It was reported that the rescue operation was completed at about 14:30.

He had relocated from the US to Rome.

It was stated that Michaelle Alejandra Rubio Leiva had previously lived in the US state of Florida, and in 2025 moved to Rome to work remotely. Leiva, a graduate of Brigham Young University, works in communication, marketing and business development.

Procedures related to the accident have been initiated.

It was reported that Italian authorities had initiated the necessary procedures after the incident. The mountainous area where the accident occurred is known for its steep slopes and loose ground.