Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park, Mount Teewinot—On July 27, Thomas Mayer (20) and Warren Wolff (20) were descending the east face of Teewinot. Weather and climbing conditions were good. The party was below the Black Chimney, to the right of the central gulley and above the center snowfield. Mayer was climbing down belayed by Wolff. The belay rope caught behind a loose rock and pulled it down. The rock fell and hit Mayer on the left hand, dislocating and separating the first joint of the fourth finger. A nerve was severed.

Source: Frank R. Oberhansley, Superintendent, Grand Teton National Park.

Analysis: This accident could have been avoided through better rope management on the part of all concerned. It is the responsibility of both men on the rope to keep it free from loose boulders, and to advise each other if a rock pulls loose.