FALL ON ROCK, INADEQUATE BELAY, PROTECTION PULLED OUT, NO HARD HAT, LOOSE ROCK

Colorado, Bear Creek Canyon

On October 26, 1986, two climbers with proper equipment, including seat harnesses, carabiners and pitons, were climbing in Bear Creek Canyon. The victim (18) was belaying the climber. Slack existed. Climber fell, stress caused victim to lose balance in standing belay. Victim fell, pulling piton out, dropping 18 meters, landing on head and back. (Source: David Niegocki, Fireman with Colorado Springs Fire Department)

(Editor’s Note: We don’t know what happened to the climber.)