Search for Lúðvík Pétursson’s remains to begin Tuesday

A search for the remains of Lúðvík Pétursson, who fell into a fissure while working in Grindavík in January 2024, is due to begin at about 9 a.m. Tuesday, mbl.is reports. The operation will start at Vesturhóp 29.

Emergency responders and specialists are preparing safety measures and setting up the work area. An incident command team has been activated and is working in Grindavík.

Following a risk assessment and necessary safety measures, divers will descend into the fissure. The opening will be cleared to improve access, but heavy machinery will not be used.

The first phase is expected to involve a visual search using inspection cameras, lighting and other search equipment, while avoiding unnecessary disturbance of material. An engineering report by COWI recommended dividing the search into four stages, with the operation expanded as it progresses.

Three foreign specialists were brought in during August to independently assess possible approaches and review COWI’s report. They said descending into the fissure appeared more promising than disturbing more ground, which could increase the risk of a collapse. COWI did not recommend whether the operation should go ahead. The Ministry of Justice asked the police commissioner to carry out an independent risk assessment before making a final decision.

Lúðvík’s family has strongly urged that his remains be retrieved.