The body of American climber Shelley Johannesen, who died in an avalanche on Mount Makalu during her descent on Sunday, has been recovered and brought to Kathmandu for a post-mortem, officials confirmed.
According to Navin Trital, Managing Director of ExpeditionHimalaya.com, six Sherpa climbers carried Johannesen’s body from an altitude of 7,200 metres down to Camp II. From there, an Altitude Air helicopter airlifted the body to Kathmandu on Monday afternoon.
Avalanche Struck During Descent After Successful Summit
Johannesen, 53, from Oregon, USA, had successfully summited the 8,485-metre-high Makalu at around 10:30 am on May 9 alongside expedition leader David Ashley and Sherpa guides Tawa Sherpa and Phurba Sonam Sherpa.
Officials said she was hit by a small avalanche at approximately 7,200 metres while descending from the summit. Tawa Sherpa also sustained injuries in the incident.
Injured Climbers Undergoing Treatment in Kathmandu
David Ashley, who reportedly became unwell during the descent, and injured guide Tawa Sherpa have both been airlifted to Kathmandu for medical treatment. Officials stated that both are currently receiving care at hospitals in the capital and are in stable condition.
Experienced Mountaineer and Adventure Entrepreneur
Johannesen and Ashley jointly operated Dash Adventures in the United States. Johannesen had previously attempted Mount Everest last spring but turned back above the South Col before reaching the summit.
