Climber Falls 1,200
Feet To His Death In Mount St. Helens Crater
An experienced
mountaineer, Roscoe "Rocky" Shorey, met a tragic end on Mount St.
Helens in Washington State while attempting to snowboard. The 42-year-old from
Washougal fell approximately 1,200 feet to his death inside the crater, where
an icy ridge beneath him gave way. Shorey, known for his mountain climbing
expertise, had previously conquered Mount St. Helens summit 28 times.
Authorities believe
Shorey encountered an unstable cornice, a block of tightly packed snow
overhanging a ridge, which collapsed as he stood near the summit. His body was
discovered by fellow climbers who noticed personal belongings scattered near
the crater rim. A rescue team airlifted into the crater and recovered his
remains.
The Skamania County
Sheriff's Office emphasized the dangers of warmer weather on mountain terrain.
They plan to collaborate with search and rescue teams to compile a detailed
report, incorporating insights from the Northwest Avalanche Center, which
confirmed Shorey's death due to a cornice fall.
Mount St. Helens, an
active stratovolcano, draws adventurers from nearby cities like Portland and
Seattle. Despite its tumultuous past, thousands visit its crater rim annually,
with permits required for summiting above 4,000 feet.
Shorey's tragic demise
serves as a reminder of the inherent risks of mountain exploration, especially
in unpredictable conditions. As climbers continue to pursue their passions
amidst nature's grandeur, caution and preparedness remain paramount in
safeguarding against such heart breaking incidents.
