Cusco: Death of missing American tourist heading to Siete Colores Mountain confirmed
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Authorities confirmed the body of a missing 29-year-old American tourist, Ian Thomas Treger, was found in a remote area of Cusco, Peru.
- Identification was made through a bank card and recognition by his mother, despite the body being in an advanced state of decomposition.
- Forensic examinations are underway in Sicuani to determine the cause of death, with accident or hypothermia being considered.
The body of a missing 29-year-old American tourist, Ian Thomas Treger, has been identified in a remote area of Cusco, Peru, authorities confirmed. Treger had been missing since May 13 after heading towards the Siete Colores mountain.
The identification was made through a Visa card in the foreigner's name, which allowed progress in the identification.
The identification was facilitated by a Visa card found among his belongings and later confirmed by his mother, who recognized him by his clothing despite the advanced decomposition of the body. The remains were discovered in the Pampa Kancha sector, a remote and geographically challenging area.
Forensic examinations are currently being conducted in Sicuani to establish the exact cause of death. Investigators are considering possibilities such as an accident or hypothermia, given the low temperatures and rugged terrain. Initial hypotheses suggest Treger may have ventured out alone, leading to disorientation.
The mother of the young man managed to recognize him despite the advanced state of decomposition, mainly by the clothes.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of hiring authorized guides for such excursions. Treger's family will handle the repatriation of his remains, while fiscal and police investigations continue to fully clarify the circumstances surrounding his death.
The necropsy exams are being carried out in the city of Sicuani (Canchis) and will be key to determining the exact causes of death.
Originally published by La Repรบblica in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.