Ryan Silsby, 25, died in a fall in Blodgett Canyon in mid-August. Silsby had parked at the Blodgett Canyon Trailhead, planning a two-day trip. His vehicle was found on September 2 with his camping gear still inside it, and his body was discovered on September 7 at the base of a rock formation on the south side of the canyon, about half a mile from the trailhead, after climbers spotted his pack. He had been free soloing and likely fell on August 16 or 17, the coroner determined.

ANALYSIS 

Telling someone exactly where you’re going when climbing alone can dramatically speed searches, especially in remote locations. In this case, it would not have changed the outcome for the climber, but it would have spared his family and friends some anguish. (Source: The Editors.)