Paul and Fiona advised this morning there had been an accident in the Icefall.
This has now been confirmed by IMG as follows:
Dear Friends, IMG expedition leader Mark Tucker reports that a big collapse in the icefall today has claimed the lives of three Sherpas, including one from the IMG team. The accident occurred partway up the icefall shortly after dawn when several large towers of ice toppled over. The rest of the IMG team is all safe. We are deeply saddened to learn that Ang Phinjo Sherpa (Phortse) died under a massive avalanche and is unrecoverable. Phinjo was our oldest Sherpa (50) and one of our very best Sherpa friends. He was a kind and gracious man, and we will miss him. He went on his first 8000 meter peak in 1973 —this was his 49 th 8000 meter expedition! Our prayers go out to Phinjo’s family and the rest of our climbing team. It sounds like they are all going to take a day “off” to get together and have a team meeting. We’ll let you know when there is more to report. Eric Simonson
Paul and Fiona report they and other IMG members are safe at Base Camp.
From Nick, on behalf of Paul and Fiona and Site Admin Team
Fiona & Paul,
So pleased you’re both ok, and so sad for the 3 Sherpas. From your perspective, maybe it’s been a blessing in disguise that you’ve been unwell and not able to do any climbing. We are so relieved that you’re both safe and well. Let’s hope this is the end of this sort of problem for some time.
All our love, Mum & Dad
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paul and fi…thanks for the update. please tell Ang Jangbu how sorry i am. if there is a monentary fund setup for Ang Phinjo Sherpa’s family, please let me know how i can contribute. such sad news. do you know the other sherpas involved and which team they were from? my prayers for everyone there. paula.
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Dear Paul, Fiona and IMG Team,
I’m terribly sorry to hear of the death of three fellow climbers and friends. The incident is definitely a reminder of the enormity of what you both are attempting, and that despite your easy going updates, there is a great deal of danger involved. My best wishes for a safe and successful journey for you all.
Zoe
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Dearest Paul and Fi,
I’m sorry to hear about the icefall accident and the passing of the 3 sherpas.
My thoughts are with you guys. I have such an amazing amount of admiration for you both and your spectacular goals.
Safe journey.
Love Kerry xo
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Fiona and Paul
I am deeply saddened by this news. My thoughts are now with the families of these 3 brave and courageous sherpas. Phinjo’s achievements were outstanding. Truly amazing.
Again, I wish you both a very safe journey on this beautiful and yet very powerful mountain.
Sincerely, MC
Dear Paul & Fiona,
Very sorry to hear the sad news. Best wishes for you and all team members at this difficult time. Have a safe journey to the top and then home.
> Phil Stammers
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Dear Paul and Fiona.
We were really saddened to hear about the icefall accident. We hope you are both doing ok, and that you and the IMG team are getting the support you need. We will be thinking of the sherpas, their families, and you both today. Hugs from Suisse
Em & Marc xx
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Dear Fi and Paul
My thoughts are with you all at BC, as they are with the loved ones of those who have suffered such a devasting accident. Stay safe. I don’t usually pray but I am now.
Love You. Love Sara
PS If they do decide to set up a fund for the victim’s loves ones I am sure all who wait for these daily updates would contribute.
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How sad. Wishing it were otherwise.
Stay safe.
Deb, Ned, & Holly Jordan.
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Very sad news….
Even sadder for the knowledge that the 3 dead Sherpas, were in the Icefall only to facilitate others to achieve their dreams and goals.
It’s a miracle that in the past few years more of these brave and courageous people haven’t lost their lives, as they spend so much more time in this extremely dangerous area than their clients.
My thoughts are with the families of the Sherpas and i wish everyone else a safe passage from now on
Regards Cas
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Fiona & Paul
We are enjoying your daily updates.
But are saddened by the accident…Our love thoughts and prayers go out to you all especially the sherpa’s families. Don’t let this destroy your dreams of reaching the top of the world.
The Roe family
Jerilderie NSW
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