FALLING ROCK

California, Mount Norman Clyde

On June 29, 1987, a rappelling climber dislodged a boulder that hit Roy Bishop (54) on the head. He tumbled down ten meters, landing on a narrow ledge. After regaining consciousness, Bishop was tied off on the ledge and the party bivouacked for the night. He suffered numerous abrasions and minor lacerations. He was able to hike out to trailhead the next day. (Source: Bob Hicks, Angeles Chapter, Sierra Club Safety Committee)

Analysis

A hard hat undoubtedly saved a life. Bishop was extremely fortunate to land on a ledge in an area where a fall could be expected to be fatal. (Source: Bob Hicks, Angeles Chapter, Sierra Club Safety Committee)