A 30-year-old climber tragically died at Vall d’Hebron Hospital in Barcelona on Sunday morning. This followed a severe rockfall incident in the Montserrat massif the previous day. The man sustained critical injuries when rocks fell on him and another climber near the Can Jorba car park. Metrópoli Abierta reported the man’s death.
The accident occurred shortly after 16:00 on Saturday, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. The Generalitat Fire Service (Bombers) received alerts about two unconscious climbers in a designated climbing area. Firefighters deployed two rescue helicopters from their aerial unit. These aircraft transported a doctor from the Medical Emergency System (SEM) and specialists from the special operations group to the scene.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
Upon arrival, paramedics performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation on one climber who was in respiratory arrest. They stabilised the second injured climber. Medical Emergency System (SEM) helicopters then evacuated the 30-year-old man to Vall d’Hebron Hospital in Barcelona. They transported the woman to Bellvitge Hospital in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat. Both individuals were admitted in a critical condition. The man could not overcome his injuries and died on Sunday morning.
Montserrat’s Popularity and Climbing Risks
The Montserrat massif, a distinctive multi-peaked mountain range, is a popular destination for climbers and hikers. It attracts thousands of visitors annually from Barcelona and beyond. The area is renowned for its unique rock formations and challenging climbing routes. Incidents involving rockfalls, though rare, highlight the inherent risks associated with mountain climbing. Authorities regularly advise climbers to check weather conditions and rock stability before ascending.
Ongoing Recovery and Investigation
The woman remains in critical condition at Bellvitge Hospital. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances of the rockfall. Investigations into the precise cause of the rockfall are expected to continue.
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Originally published by Metrópoli Abierta – Urban Life. Read original article.