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12 People Found Dead at Georgia Ski Resort

Originally posted on Powder | By Ian Greenwood | Last updated Dec 16, 2024 2:14 PM ET

Twelve people have been found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at Gudauri, a Georgian ski resort in the Caucasus Mountains.

Eleven of the deceased are Indian. One was Georgian. They were found in a sleeping area housed on the second floor of an Indian restaurant where they all worked. The BBC and CNN report that an oil-powered generator was turned on and placed near the bedrooms indoors after a power outage.

No signs of injury or violence were found on the bodies of the deceased, according to a statement from the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs. Local law enforcement is investigating the incident as a case of negligent manslaughter under Article 116 of the Criminal Code of Georgia.

"Investigative actions are actively being carried out, forensic—criminalistics are working on the spot, interviews of persons related to the case are being conducted. Appropriate examinations are appointed. A forensic medical examination has also been appointed to determine the exact cause of death," the Ministry of Internal Affairs statement reads.

The Indian Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia, is working to repatriate the remains of the Indian nationals, according to a statement from the Embassy. "We are also in contact with bereaved families and are committed to providing all possible support," it reads.

Power generators, while useful during electricity outages, can cause carbon monoxide poisoning if used indoors. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 80 people each year are killed in the U.S. by carbon monoxide poisoning from power generators. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas.

Gudauri is Georgia's largest and highest ski resort. CNN reports that the country has drawn an increasing number of tourists and offers a less expensive vacation option than the Alps. The small nation—which borders the Black Sea—also hosted a Freeride World Tour (FWT) event in 2024, the Georgia Pro, at Tetnuldi Ski Resort. It was Georgia's first-ever FWT event.

In 2018, Gudauri made headlines when one of the resort's chairlifts began running in reverse. As the chairlifts came to a stop at the lower terminal, they collided with each other and threw people through the air. At least ten people were injured.

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This article first appeared on Powder and was syndicated with permission.

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