RAPPEL ERROR—FALL ON ROCK

California, Owens River Gorge, China Wall

On February 4, Ian Seevers Mack (23) died after falling 115 feet while climbing China Wall.

Apparently Mack was preparing to rappel when he fell. Mack was anchored and as his partner was preparing to take a photo, Mack suddenly fell. Climbers nearby reported hearing the call, “Off belay!” They responded with a rescue litter to help get Mack to safety. Sadly, his injuries proved too severe and he later died at the hospital. (Source: Edited from an article in The Inyo Register)