Wisconsin Climber Dies in Devils Tower Fall

Stewart Phillip Porter, a 21-year-old climber from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, died after falling while rappelling the second pitch of El Cracko Diablo at Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, and despite efforts from paramedics, Porter was pronounced dead at the scene due to major injuries. His climbing partner, who was stranded, was later rescued with the help of local climbing guides. The cause of the fall remains under investigation, but the National Park Service noted that most climbing accidents at the Tower occur during rappels. Devils Tower, which has only experienced seven climbing deaths in over a century, is known for its challenging crack climbing routes.