Yosemite Valley, Cathedral Spires—On April 10, 1954, Larry Lackey (19) in company with Dick Long and Jim Wilson were trying a new route on the higher Cathedral Spire. All three are experienced mountaineers and climbers. They turned back from their climb, roped off, and started to descend unroped down a step chimney. Lackey was last man. In descending, Lackey pulled off a large rock (estimated weight 200 lbs.) and fell about 8-10 ft. The rock landed on his legs and crushed them severely. One of his legs was fractured in seven places. First aid was given and he was removed the next morning in a Stokes litter.

Source: Gil Roberts, Sierra Club, and Stanford Alpine Club present at the scene; report of N. B. Evans, Supervising Ranger, Yosemite National Park; statement of climbing party signed by James Wilson and Richard Long; James Bonner.

Analysis: All rocks, even big ones, must be treated with caution. It is doubtful that a rope would have been any help here.