Falling Rock, No Hard Hat, California, Yosemite Valley

Publication Year: 1982.

FALLING ROCK, NO HARD HAT

California, Yosemite Valley

On June 15, 1981, Scott Williams (20) and his partner were climbing the East Buttress of Middle Cathedral. At the end of the third pitch, a German party caught up to Williams’ party and asked to pass. Williams let the German party pass. Williams was belaying his partner who was leading the fourth pitch. The German party knocked a rock loose and the rock struck Williams on the top of the head. Williams was assisted to the bottom by his partner and walked into the Yosemite Clinic. The laceration required 11 stitches. (Source: John Dill, SAR Ranger, Yosemite National Park)

Analysis

See Ruwitch/Kimbrough accident at Yosemite on May 22, 1981.