ALPINE TRAGEDY IN AUSTRIA

6 December 1999

Was alcohol to blame for the deaths at this weekend's Snowboard Air and Style weekend in Innsbruck?

After the tragic death of five women, crushed by a panicking crowd, authorities were quick to place the blame at the door of alcohol.  Both gluwein and beer had been on sale and there is talk of a alcohol ban at further large events during the season.

It is expected that a public enquiry will follow the accident and will look into the question of alcohol sales, as well as the suitability of the stadium, host to the 1963 Winter Olympics for future events.