Eau Claire climber dies at Devils Tower National Monument
Eau Claire climber dies at Devils Tower National Monument, 21-year-old rock climber falls, dies at storied ‘Close Encounters’ filming location: National Park Service The Devils Tower Monument served as a filming location for 1977’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Tragic Climbing Accident at Devils Tower National Monument
Eau Claire Climber Dies While Rappelling
A 21-year-old rock climber from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, tragically lost his life while rappelling at Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. Stewart Philip Porter fell while attempting the second pitch of El Cracko Diablo, a popular climbing route known for its challenging terrain.
Details of the Incident
On Sunday, September 22, park rangers were alerted to Porter’s fall shortly before 8:00 PM. First responders arrived approximately 45 minutes later but, despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead on the scene due to severe injuries. His climbing partner, who was stranded, was later rescued by guides from Buck Wild Climbing and Devils Tower Lodge.
The Climbing Community Reacts
Devils Tower, renowned for its striking rock formations and its role as a filming location for Close Encounters of the Third Kind, has seen seven climbing fatalities since it became a national park in 1906. The National Parks Service continues to emphasize the inherent dangers of climbing, especially during rappelling, and urges climbers to follow safety protocols.
Safety Measures and Recommendations
Climbing at Devils Tower is subject to seasonal restrictions to protect nesting falcons and preserve Native American cultural values. The National Parks Service advises climbers to wear helmets, be aware of their surroundings, and know emergency protocols. The tragic incident underscores the importance of these measures for ensuring climber safety.
Remembering Stewart Porter
The National Parks Service expressed heartfelt condolences to Porter’s family and gratitude to local emergency services for their prompt response. This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the ultimate risks involved in rock climbing and highlights the need for continued awareness and adherence to safety practices in the sport.
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Eau Claire climber dies at Devils Tower National Monument
FAQs
Q: What happened to Stewart Porter?
A: Stewart Porter fell while rappelling at Devils Tower and was pronounced dead on the scene due to severe injuries.
Q: What is the history of climbing accidents at Devils Tower?
A: Since becoming a national park in 1906, there have been seven climbing fatalities at Devils Tower.
Q: What safety measures should climbers take?
A: Climbers should wear helmets, be aware of their surroundings, and follow emergency protocols.
Q: Why are there seasonal restrictions for climbing at Devils Tower?
A: Restrictions are in place to protect nesting falcons and honor Native American cultural values.
Q: How did local emergency services respond to the incident?
A: Local emergency services, including Buck Wild Climbing Guides and Devils Tower Lodge, quickly assisted in the rescue efforts following the accident.
