RAPPEL FAILURE, INADEQUATE EQUIPMENT

Alberta, Rocky Mountains, Mt. Alberta

On August 1, 1979, Archie Ellis and two companions, all of Calgary, were descending Mt. Alberta. They had set up a rappel with Ellis coming last. Their rappel rope broke and Ellis fell 100 feet, breaking his fibula and receiving multiple lacerations and abrasions. (Source: D. A. Dumpleton, Jasper National Park)

Analysis

The rappel was made on a hemp rope. (Source: D. A. Dumpleton, Jasper National Park)