FALL ON ROCK, CLIMBING ALONE, EXCEEDING ABILITIES

British Columbia, Purcell Mountains, Crescent Spires

On July 6, 1986, a solo climber (24) was attempting the Donkey Ears. It was cloudy and cool. About 2500 meters he came to a spot that was very difficult. In spite of being alone and unroped, he continued, slipped, and fell, severely injuring his right knee. His pack was lost in the fall, and so he had no access to warm clothing. Some other climbers in the area heard his calls for help. Three of them came and belayed him down off the ridge. A park ranger arrived, and called in a helicopter once the injured climber was down on the snow. His knee was possibly broken or dislocated. (Source: J. Timmins, Bugaboo Glacier Provincial Park)

Analysis

The climber was fairly experienced, but should have been more aware of his personal limits on rock. (Source: J. Timmins, Bugaboo Glacier Provincial Park)