FALL ON ROCK, EXCEEDING ABILITIES

Wyoming, Teewinot

On August 8, Adam Gymrek (22) and Dirk Murphy were descending a couloir on Teewinot’s East Face. At 0830, Gymrek slipped while attempting to descend a slab of rock. He fell several feet and twisted his left knee which resulted in his inability to continue the descent. Murphy went for help and by noon Teton Park Ranger Dorward was inserted by helicopter on a nearby ledge. At 1200, after administering first aid, Dorward and Gymrek were short hauled to Lupine Meadows and Gymrek was taken to the hospital for treatment. (Source: Peter Armington, Ranger, Grand Teton National Park)

Analysis

A more accurate judgment of whether the rock slab could be safely descended might have prevented this accident. This is another case in which the party, due to its small size, was unable to facilitate its own rescue. (Source: Phil Powers, NOLS)