FALLING ROCK

California, Mount Abbott

On September 19, 1987, five climbers were ascending the mountain in a steep, third class rocky area. The lead climber dislodged a rock slab that slid between his legs and hit the leg of a climber two meters below. After a bone-deep gouge was bandaged, the injured party was able to climb on belay to the summit plateau 100 meters above. One person returned to camp and returned with bivouac gear for the three of them. The other two members of the group hiked out to roadhead and contacted the sheriff.

The injured person was lifted out by helicopter at 1000 the next morning. (Source: Bob Hicks, Angeles Chapter, Sierra Club Safety Committee)

Analysis

The climbers were aware that they would encounter areas of loose rock during the climb. It is evident that awareness of conditions may not be enough to prevent accidents. (Source: Bob Hicks, Angeles Chapter, Sierra Club Safety Committee)