Missing Denali Mountaineer Found Dead

A man who disappeared this week on the highest mountain in North America has been found dead.

According to a news release, Alex Chui, a 41-year-old from Washington, was found dead Wednesday morning in Denali National Park and Preserve. His body was transferred to the state medical examiner.

Chui was ski mountaineering Monday with two other people when he fell at Squirrel Point.

Witnesses to Chui’s fall lowered themselves over the edge as far as possible but could not locate him. Witnesses then proceeded down the West Buttress route for additional help

The search of Chui’s remains was stalled due to weather, as high winds and snow kept searchers from accessing the accident site until early Wednesday morning, when two rangers were able to find Chui via helicopter.

According to park service, Chui was found unroped. This isn’t the first death link to Squirrel Point. In 2010, an unroped French mountaineer fell to his death near the exact same location. His remains were never found.

According to National Park Traveler, there were 500 registered climbers on the mountain as of Wednesday. The busiest part of the Denali climbing season generally takes place from late May to late June. Climbers looking to take part must apply for a special use permit. In addition, to prevent any more deaths or accidents, the park service says they should be well-versed in climbing before attempting an ascent. .