Climber Dies While Suffering Medical Emergency on Mount Shasta

Just before 7:00 p.m. on the evening of Friday, May 17th, Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Dispatch received a Garmin InReach emergency notification at 9,500 feet up Avalanche Gulch. A 49-year-old climber, later identified as David Lopez, 49, of Campbell, CA, had collapsed and become unresponsive while approaching Lake Helen with his climbing partner.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Coordinator notified the US Forest Service (USFS) Climbing Rangers of the incident as well as the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Air Operations to rescue the man. However, due to onset of darkness, hoist operations were not possible for the Air Operations fleet. While USFS Climbing Rangers made their way towards Mr. Lopez, the SCSO’s Search and Rescue (SAR) Team also responded to help the Rangers transport Mr. Lopez down the
mountain.

When Mr. Lopez collapsed, his climbing partner immediately began CPR until he was relieved by the Climbing Rangers to continue lifesaving efforts. Tragically, Mr. Lopez was not able to be resuscitated and was transported down to Bunny Flats by the Climbing Rangers and SAR team. A Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Deputy met the rescuers at the trailhead, where he pronounced Mr. Lopez deceased at 10:49 p.m. and notified next-of-kin.

At this time, the cause and manner of death are pending an autopsy. The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office offers its most heartfelt condolences to the Lopez family and friends, and expresses its appreciation to the USS Climbing Rangers and SAR team for their rapid response to the distress call and lifesaving efforts.

source: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office