MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK, Washington (AP) — A Washington state man attempting to climb Mount Rainier this week collapsed and died near the top of the mountain in the national park, authorities said.
National Park Service officials said Friday that Brian Harper, of Bremerton, collapsed around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday near the top of the 14,441-foot (4,402-meter) mountain while conducting a guided ascent by Alpine Ascents International.
Guides were unable to detect a pulse and CPR on the 41-year-old man was unsuccessful, authorities said.
Climbing guides with Alpine Ascents and Rainier Mountaineering worked with National Park Service climbing and aviation rangers to lower Harper’s body from the summit.
Weather conditions were “finally favorable” for a park helicopter to complete the mission around 10:30 a.m. Thursday, the official said.
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The Pierce County Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death.
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