Unfastened Safety Rope Briefly to Take a Photo
Climb Reported as Illegal Due to Violation of Regulations
An incident occurred in the snowy mountains of China in which a hiker temporarily unfastened their safety rope to take a photo of a companion, lost their balance, and fell down a steep slope to their death. On September 31, 2025, Yonhap News, citing The Sun and other foreign media, reported on the fatal accident that took place on September 25 at Mount Namabong in Sichuan Province, which stands at an elevation of 5,588 meters.
A hiker in the snowy mountains of China fell to his death after tripping over equipment while trying to take a photo of a companion. SNS
At the time, the hiker, referred to as A, had climbed the snowy mountain with companions and temporarily unfastened their safety rope near the summit to take a photo of a fellow climber. As A stood up after taking the photo, their foot got caught in crampons (anti-slip metal spikes), causing them to lose balance and fall down the steep slope. Video footage captured at the scene shows A, dressed in red, standing up and then slipping and tumbling forward down the slope. The rescue team found A approximately 200 meters below, but they had already passed away.
A hiker in the snowy mountains of China fell to his death after tripping over equipment while trying to take a photo of a companion. SNS
Mount Namabong had been completely closed to climbers last year due to glacier fissures but was reopened this year. According to regulations, high-altitude climbs above 3,500 meters require climbers to submit their plans and safety measures to the local mountaineering association and sports authorities for approval. However, the climbing party involved in this accident had not filed any prior notice. Hu Qianchu, Deputy Director of the Kangding City Education and Sports Bureau, stated, "This accident constitutes illegal climbing," and urged mountaineering enthusiasts to strictly follow legal procedures and prepare thoroughly.
The Sichuan Mountaineering Association stated that A was not a professional climber, and authorities confirmed the climb was conducted illegally without a permit. Local police are currently investigating the incident. After watching the accident video, local social media users commented, "It's such a tragic accident, but one must be even more careful in such places," "Whether in the mountains or at sea, safety equipment should never be removed arbitrarily," and "I hope this accident serves as a lesson to everyone who attempts illegal climbs."
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