Three lives have been tragically lost on Mount Everest this week, with another guide still missing. The victims include a British climber, a Kenyan banker who was acting as a guide, and a Nepalese climber. These incidents, including an ice collapse, have shaken the mountaineering community and serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that come with conquering the world’s tallest peak.
Daniel Paul Paterson, aged 40, and his guide, Pastenji Sherpa, aged 23, tragically vanished during their descent from the mountain when an ice collapse occurred on Tuesday. The news was shared on Instagram by 8K Expeditions, the company responsible for organizing the expedition. Prior to their untimely demise, both Paterson and Sherpa had successfully reached the summit. They were part of a 15-member team undertaking the same climb, all of whom were associated with the Kathmandu-based climbing company.
According to the adventure company, eyewitnesses have reported that the incident occurred between Summit Ridge and South Summit, resulting in some climbers being swept away in Kangshung Face. The company expressed their remembrance and admiration for the undying spirits of those affected and offered their heartfelt condolences to the grieving families.
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Kenyan climber’s guide remains missing
On Wednesday morning, 40-year-old Kenyan Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui and his 44-year-old guide Nawang Sherpa went missing on the 29,032-foot mountain in a separate incident.
According to CBS News, the Nepalese government official, Khim Lal Gautam, has reported that the Kenyan climber has been found dead between the summit and the Hillary Step. However, the climber’s guide is still missing.
According to a statement from the Nepal Department of Tourism, a 37-year-old Nepali climber named Binod Babu Bastakoti tragically lost his life at an altitude of 26,902 feet on Wednesday.
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Friends, government officials express condolences for dead climbers
According to the adventure company, Sherpa was an accomplished climber who had successfully conquered several impressive mountains, including two ascents of Mt. Everest, the second highest peak on Earth, as well as K2 and Amadablam in Nepal. The company praised Sherpa’s warm spirit, kindness, and exceptional expertise, highlighting him as one of the top guides at 8K Expeditions.
Paterson, an experienced climber, is renowned for his robust fitness, uplifting positivity, and strong determination. He has successfully summited Island Peak and Amadablam in the past, and approached Everest with intense preparation and unwavering determination.
Kenyan foreign ministry secretary, Korir Sing’oei, offered his condolences on X for Kirui, whom he referred to as his dear friend.
Sing’oei expressed his disappointment on social media, stating that he was truly saddened by the news. He had been closely following the accomplishments of the individual in question, until their unfortunate demise. Sing’oei described the person as a courageous and bold individual, who embodied the unwavering determination of many Kenyans. Their presence will be deeply missed.
Fellow climber James Muhia shared an X post revealing that Kirui lost radio contact during his climb on the early morning of May 22. Tragically, his body was found just 48 meters from the summit.
This morning, I found myself in tears upon receiving the news of my brother @cheruiyot_ak’s passing. It is with a heavy heart that I share this sad day with you. Our brother has found eternal rest on the mountain, and we are now faced with the difficult task of saying goodbye. Farewell, my dear brother.
Before Kirui’s death, the Kenyan climber also shared updates about the climb on social media.
In a post on May 17, Kirui shared on Instagram, he expressed his plan for a no-oxygen attempt. He stated, “Physically, my body is ready, but I am fully aware of the special preparations and risks that come with it.”
Natalie Neysa Alund, a senior reporter for USA TODAY, can be reached at [email protected]. You can also follow her on X @nataliealund.
4 climbers have lost their lives on Mount Everest, with one still missing. The collapse of ice is being cited as one of the contributing factors.