EXPOSURE, FROSTBITE, BAD WEATHER, INEXPERIENCE, PANIC—California, Piute Pass. Steve Sheppard (22) and Jeri Ann Grassmeuch (22) were trying to complete a trip from North Lake to South Lake on January 3 when bad weather caused them to turn back. They were camped at Piute Lake on their return, and during the night drifting snow pushed in the sides of the tent. They left the site and their gear and tried to make it to their car at North Lake. They left packs, sleeping bags, mittens, gaitors, down sweaters, matches, stove, and snow shoes. Sheppard died twenty-four hours later under extremely bad weather conditions which included two feet of snow and four foot drifts. A helicopter flight the next morning located the tracks of the two. (No information as to how rescue was completed.) (Source: Bob McCoy, Inyo County Sheriff's Posse.)

Analysis: Severe weather apparently panicked the inexperienced couple. (Source: J. Williamson.)