The Solution to a Mystery

Discoveries uncovered in the ice can sometimes reveal answers to decades-old mysteries, such as the mysterious disappearance of Marcelin and Francine Dumoulin, who vanished without a trace nearly 80 years ago. The Swiss couple left their home on foot on August 15, 1942, and never returned. According to local legend, the two went out to milk their cows, however they could have been headed to Bern. In any case, despite the fact that search parties had been out for months following their disappearance, no one knew what had happened to them. The mystery was solved in 2017 when a ski resort worker discovered their mummified bones buried in ice.

The remains were discovered on the Tsanfleuron glacier, which is more than 8,500 feet above sea level. They were dressed in World War II-era clothing, so it was evident right away that they had been on ice for a long period, and DNA tests later proved their identities as the Dumoulins. The married pair most likely plunged into a chasm, which became their icy grave for decades. The glacier then receded due to climate change, allowing their bodies to emerge to the surface.

Found: in 2017

Location: Tsanfleuron glacier