Inquest into Chamonix climbing tragedy

Some readers may remember the tragic accident at Les Gaillands in August 2008, when young climber Ian Jackson fell to his death.

The inquest has now concluded and the cause of the accident does not seem to be any clearer than it was at the time.

Ian was at the top of his climbing route at a fixed belay point when he fell. His two friends and climbing companions were on a ledge lower down and so were unable to see what might have caused him to fall. One of his friends suggested that the rope may not have been passed through the ring anchor at the top and that possibly Ian lost his balance before he was ready to start abseiling down the crag.

Ian was said to be an experienced and talented climber, who had all the necessary equipment. He had already climbed several times with legendary high altitude climber Alan Hinkes and had completed many difficult climbs both in the UK and in Europe.

Ian was airlifted to hospital in Geneva but died of multiple fractures to his skull, ribs and pelvis. The pathologist who carried out the post mortem said that wearing a helmet would not have saved his life in this instance.

Les Gaillands is a popular climbing site with bolted routes for all standards of climbers. It is often used as a teaching site for children and beginners due to its easy access and range of routes. Ian's death would seem to be a genuine and very tragic accident, unprecedented due to his experience and the relative safety of the site.

Source: gazettelive.co.uk