Washington Photographer Ross Wallette Dies Falling Mount Fury

Two tragic mountain climbing incidents recently claimed the lives of experienced climbers in the western United States. Grant Gardner, a 38-year-old from Lakeville, Minnesota, was found deceased in Wyoming's Cloud Peak Wilderness nearly a month after going missing during a solo trek. In Washington, Ross James Wallette, a well-known adventure photographer, videographer, and climbing guide, died after falling 200 to 300 feet when a handhold broke loose during an ascent of Mount Fury in the North Cascades. Wallette, who had a deep passion for both photography and the outdoors, was climbing with a mountain researcher at the time of the accident, and despite rescue efforts, he died at the scene. Wallette is remembered by family, friends, and the climbing community for his dedication to his craft and adventurous spirit. Both incidents highlight the risks inherent in mountain climbing, even for highly skilled individuals.