Wyoming, September 26, 2024 (Yes Punjab News)
A 21-year-old rock climber tragically died after suffering major injuries while climbing Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming, according to authorities.
The incident occurred on Sunday, just before 8 p.m., when Stewart Phillip Porter, from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, fell while rappelling down the second pitch of a popular route known as *El Cracko Diablo*.
The National Park Service (NPS) reported that Porter was descending the Tower when he fell and sustained significant injuries. Despite rescue efforts, he did not survive.
Porter’s climbing partner was stranded on the Tower’s wall following the fall but was successfully rescued with the assistance of local climbing guides from Devils Tower Lodge and Buck Wild Climbing Guides.
A Rare Tragedy at a Historic Climbing Site
Devils Tower, a striking geological feature and popular rock-climbing destination, has a long climbing history that spans more than 100 years. However, climbing fatalities at the Tower remain rare. According to the NPS, only seven climbing-related deaths have occurred in that time.
“While climbing fatalities at Devils Tower are infrequent, it is still inherently dangerous,” park officials said in a statement. They took the opportunity to remind climbers of the potential risks involved in the sport and emphasized the importance of following proper safety precautions.
Safety Measures Highlighted by the National Park Service
Following the incident, the NPS issued several important safety reminders to climbers:
– Check the weather: Climbers should always be aware of local weather conditions before and during a climb, as changing weather can pose significant hazards.
– Watch for animals: Devils Tower is home to stinging insects, birds, rodents, and reptiles, which climbers may encounter while scaling the Tower.
– Consult multiple sources: When planning a climb, it’s important to gather information from various guidebooks and sources, as suggested gear may differ between them.
– Rappelling dangers: The majority of climbing accidents and deaths at Devils Tower occur during rappelling. The NPS stressed the importance of inspecting and backing up anchors, knowing the location of the rappel route, and understanding the required distance for a safe descent.
– Rope management: Climbers should avoid jamming ropes in cracks or knocking loose rocks onto those below and should ensure they have adequate rope length for the rappel.
Community Responds to the Tragedy
The NPS expressed gratitude to Devils Tower Lodge, Buck Wild Climbing Guides, Hulett EMS, the Crook County Sheriff’s Office, and the monument staff for their efforts in the search and recovery operation. Park officials extended their condolences to Stewart Phillip Porter’s family.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks of rock climbing, even in the hands of experienced climbers. While the sport offers thrilling challenges, it also requires strict adherence to safety measures to minimize risks.
FAQs
1. How did the rock climber die at Devils Tower?
The climber, Stewart Phillip Porter, fell while rappelling down the second pitch of a route at Devils Tower, sustaining major injuries that led to his death.
2. How many people have died while climbing Devils Tower?
Over the 100-plus-year climbing history of Devils Tower, there have been seven reported climbing-related fatalities.
3. What are the main causes of accidents at Devils Tower?
The majority of climbing accidents at Devils Tower occur during rappelling. Other risks include weather conditions, improper use of gear, and loose rock.
4. What safety tips did the National Park Service provide for climbers?
The NPS emphasized checking weather conditions, watching for wildlife, consulting multiple sources for route information, inspecting anchors before rappelling, and avoiding jamming ropes in cracks or knocking loose rock onto climbers below.
5. Who assisted in the rescue and recovery efforts?
Local climbing guides from Devils Tower Lodge and Buck Wild Climbing Guides, along with Hulett EMS, the Crook County Sheriff’s Office, and monument staff, assisted in the rescue and recovery efforts following the incident.
