An avalanche in the Ecrins massif in the Hautes-Alpes took three people: a guide and two clients.

These three cross-country skiers died in the accident on Monday morning.

An investigation was opened by the prosecution for "manslaughter".

The Alpine departments are placed in yellow vigilance by Météo France. 

Three touring skiers died Monday morning, swept away by an avalanche in the Ecrins massif in the Hautes-Alpes, we learned from the Gap prosecutor's office.

According to the first elements, the three victims were swept away by a snow flow in a corridor located at about 3,200 meters above sea level, near the Adèle Planchard refuge in the town of Villar d'Arène.

An investigation opened for "manslaughter"

"A rescue operation is still underway in the Ecrins massif, in the Grande Ruine sector. An avalanche took three people, a guide and two clients. The three victims died," Florent Crouhy told AFP, public prosecutor in Gap.

An investigation was opened by the prosecution for "manslaughter" and entrusted to the High Mountain Gendarmerie Platoon (PGHM) of Briançon. The Alpine departments are placed in yellow vigilance by Météo France on Monday because of the risk of avalanches.