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9h ago

Climbing Anchor Failure in Washington Mountains Claims Three Lives, Survivor Hospitalized

Investigators focus on a suspected old piton as the cause of the deadly fall near North Early Winters Spire.

Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office personnel and search volunteers responded to a climbing accident in the area of North Early Winters Spire.
Image
A general view of Lake Ann, Corteo Peak and Black Peak from Lake Ann - Maple Pass - Heather Pass Loop Trail, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Cascade Mountains, Washington.

Overview

  • Three climbers, aged 36, 47, and 63, died after falling 400 feet during a rappelling descent in Washington's North Cascades on May 11.
  • The sole survivor, Anton Tselykh, 38, sustained internal bleeding and a traumatic brain injury but managed a self-rescue and called for help after a 12-hour trek.
  • Authorities suspect an old, weathered piton used as part of the anchor system failed, causing the fall; investigations into the equipment are ongoing.
  • The Snohomish County Helicopter Rescue Team recovered the deceased climbers from the technical, mountainous terrain with challenging weather conditions.
  • The incident highlights the risks of relying on pre-existing climbing anchors and the importance of thorough safety checks in remote, rugged environments.