FALL ON ROCK

Wyoming, Thor Peak

On September 30, 1991, at 1000, Forest McCarthy (23) fell about 80 feet while climbing Thor Peak. His climbing partner, William Starrett (31), lowered McCarthy several hundred feet before leaving him to get help.

At 1400, Starrett waved down Ranger Brent Findley and told him his climbing partner was injured. Starrett followed Findley to the Moose Fire Cache where he met with Ranger Armington.

McCarthy was waiting for a rescue on the glacier on the south side of Thor Peak. The park rescue team was mobilized and at 1530 McCarthy was picked up by helicopter from the glacier. His injuries consisted of a possible broken left elbow, a contusion to the left cheek and a bruised back. He was taken to St. John’s Hospital by NPS ambulance where he was treated and released. (Source: Scott Berkenfield, Ranger, Grand Teton National Park)