Fall on Rock, Climbing Alone and Unroped, Inadequate Equipment, Exceeding Abilities, Arizona, Sedona

Publication Year: 1988.

FALL ON ROCK, CLIMBING ALONE AND UNROPED,

INADEQUATE EQUIPMENT, EXCEEDING ABILITIES

Arizona, Sedona

On October 6, 1987, Brian Green (19) was climbing a 5.7 route on the Courthouse Rock Fountain, and while attempting a final chimney near the top, he fell onto a small ledge. Several blocks of sandstone came loose and pinned his left foot. After about two hours of being stranded in that position, he shouted to a hiker 40 meters below. The Sedona Fire Department’s Technical Rescue Squad came and lowered the victim—requiring an estimated 75 person hours. (Source: Reed Thome, Captain, Sedona Fire Department Technical Rescue Squad)

Analysis

The climber claimed to have about four years of experience. He had no climbing shoes and no climbing equipment, however. The nature of the sandstone on this route warrants a rope and protection. The area is remote as well. (Source: Reed Thome, Captain, Sedona Fire Department Technical Rescue Squad)