Published June 8, 2009 02:51PM
Worry invaded the Boulder climbing community when three climbers went missing on China’s Mount Edgar, a 22,368-ft. peak on the Minya Konka massif in remote Western Sichuan Province last week. That fear turned to tragedy on Sunday when Chinese rescuers confirmed they found the body of renowned climber Jonny Copp, 35, in the debris of an avalanche.
The news worsened today, as rescuers have announced the discovery of another body, believed to be Wade Johnson, a filmmaker, photographer, and climber who joined the expedition to document the team’s new route for Sender Films. Micah Dash, the third member of the expedition, is still missing.
“This is a very sad day. Wade had a big life in front of him. His family and friends have been very strong during this difficult process of waiting and hoping. Our deepest sympathies go out to the Johnson family and all of the many people that had the opportunity to know and love Wade,” says Robb Shurr, spokesperson for the search effort.
A team of American climbers will arrive at basecamp today to help coordinate remaining search efforts. While details are sketchy, it seems the climbers were caught in a massive avalanche at around 4,000 meters.
Condolences go out to all the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen climbers. Click here to donate to the rescue effort.
—Ted Alvarez
Adventurefilm.org