FALL ON ROCK, INEXPERIENCE

British Columbia, Coast Mountains, Wedge Mountain

Darlene Wright (33) and Brian Prentice (34) were ascending the north ridge of Wedge Mountain on August 10, 1980. The ridge is exposed but not difficult. They were roped, and apparently moving together, and not wearing hard hats. Wright, who was leading, fell and pulled Prentice after her. They fell about 300 feet down the face. Wright was killed and Prentice, although not seriously injured, was knocked unconscious. When he recovered, he hiked out for eight hours to obtain help. Whistler sar responded and Wright’s body was evacuated by helicopter the next day. (Source: D. Cathers)

Analysis

This incident appears to be another demonstration that a rope used while moving together does not necessarily provide protection to either climber. (Source: I. Kay)