A 30-year-old man has died at Vall d’Hebron Hospital in Barcelona after succumbing to injuries sustained in a climbing accident in Montserrat on 11 April. Falling rocks critically injured him and his 30-year-old female companion during their ascent.

The woman, also 30, remains in critical condition at Bellvitge Hospital, located in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, near Barcelona. The severe incident occurred around 16:30 on Saturday, 11 April, in the Columpio sector of Montserrat. This area is a well-known climbing spot situated near the Can Jorba car park. A witness alerted emergency services via 112 after discovering two unconscious climbers at the base of the rock face.

Extensive Emergency Response

Generalitat Firefighters (Bombers de la Generalitat) immediately launched a significant rescue operation. They deployed two rescue helicopters, carrying their Special Actions Group (GRAE) team and a Medical Emergency System (SEM) doctor. Additionally, the SEM dispatched two medicalised helicopters, three ground units, and a command vehicle to the remote scene. Emergency personnel worked quickly to resuscitated the man after he suffered cardiorespiratory arrest shortly before their arrival.

Rescuers then extracted him by helicopter, transporting him directly to Vall d’Hebron Hospital. He entered the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in critical condition, where he later died. Paramedics also attended to the woman at the scene, stabilising her before her transfer to Bellvitge Hospital for urgent medical care.

Investigation and Climbing Safety

The Mossos d’Esquadra, Catalonia’s police force, activated their specialised Mountain Unit and a Citizen Security patrol. They conducted an initial visual inspection of the accident site to gather evidence and initiated the corresponding proceedings. Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the rockfall that led to this tragic event. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with climbing in mountainous regions like Montserrat, a popular destination for both experienced climbers and hikers seeking its unique geological formations.

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Originally published by El Caso (El Nacional). Read original article.