Washington, Olympic Mountains (1)—On July 1, 1956 Roy Harniss (20), one of a party of five climbers from Bremerton, was standing on a steep snow slope on the Sawtooth Pinnacles, putting on his mittens. He lost his footing and before he could grab his ice axe, he tumbled an estimated 300 feet down the slope. He was unable to control his descent in any way. His path was down a snow chute that opened onto a large snow field, dotted with islands of rock and trees. Fortunately, his fall was stopped when he lit (headfirst) in a shallow schrund at the end of the chute, the only thing that saved him from another estimated 800-foot slide. During his fall he hit rocks which are believed to have caused the compound fracture of his right leg. Harniss also sustained a bruised hip and ribs and face lacerations, but these were minor injuries.

Two members went for help to the Park Ranger Station, while two others stayed with him. He was given first aid, including a traction splint, and made comfortable for the night with sleeping bags, extra clothing, packs, and tarps. Final evacuation was accomplished by a Mountain Rescue Council party and a Coast Guard helicopter.

Source: Mountain Rescue Council Newsletter No. 11; Vic Josendal; Fred J. Overly, Superintendent, Olympic National Park.