FALL ON ROCK, PROTECTION PULLED, NO HARD HAT

Alberta, Rocky Mountains, Back-of-the-Lake Crag

On August 30, T. R. was leading “I Hear My Train A-Coming” (5.10c). He was retreating to his last piece because, “it was no good,” when he fell, pulling it and at least one other piece. He hit the ground with the rope just coming tight possibly absorbing some of the shock. He lost consciousness and sustained head and neck injuries. He was not wearing a helmet. Two guides climbing nearby called Warden Service Dispatch and attended to the climbers injuries. The climber was flown out from the trail below the Crag.

Analysis

It is not known what gear the climber had placed. He obviously realized the importance of his last piece of protection, as he was attempting difficult moves and he was retreating to replace the piece. (Source: Parks Canada Warden Service)