Five people were killed and one seriously injured following a mountaineering accident in west Austria's Salzburg state on Sunday morning.

The accident occurred at Mannlkarscharte in Krimml municipality, southwest of the city of Salzburg.

Local newspaper The Krone reported that the incident occurred when the group of six reached an area located underneath a glacier. The rocks in that area were very loose, and appear to have caused the accident.

Another group of mountaineers about 30 to 50 metres behind observed the events, and stated that one of the group, that were roped together, wanted to turn back due to the risk involved. The others agreed, but as they turned to make their way back, a person in the group lost his footing and fell, pulling the others with him.

They fell about 100 metres onto a rock outcrop, before tumbling about the same distance yet again.

A mountain guide who observed the incident notified the authorities who sent rescue crews and helicopters. Rescue efforts were reportedly made difficult due to the risk of falling rocks.

The sole survivor was airlifted to hospital in critical condition, and has since been reported to have stabilized.

One of the deceased meanwhile has been identified as a 34-year-old German from the nearby state of Bavaria, with authorities believing it is likely the entire group came from there.

source: xinhua