Hiker in coma after falling 120 feet from Mount Whitney

In California, a tragic incident occurred when 14-year-old Zane Wach fell 120 feet from a slope while climbing Mount Whitney earlier this month. Accompanied by his father, Ryan Wach, Zane was attempting an advanced hiking trail, though it was his first time on this notable mountain. After tackling the most challenging section of their ascent, Zane began to show concerning symptoms of altitude sickness, leading his father to make the decision to navigate a safer path back down. The descent was interrupted by Zane’s distressing hallucinations, which began to escalate. Ryan Wach noted that his son started seeing imaginary figures, like snowmen and characters, and at one point admitted doubt about his own reality. This alarming behavior prompted Ryan to try to reassure Zane and maintain his focus on the hike back, but as they neared a precarious area of the trail, Zane unknowingly wandered close to the edge. Despite frantic attempts to reach his son, Ryan was unable to prevent Zane from stepping off the edge, resulting in a catastrophic fall. Once Zane reached the bottom, he remained conscious but in critical condition; immediate help was needed to ensure his survival. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) on the scene quickly assessed Zane's injuries and coordinated rescue operations. Although Zane was subsequently placed in a medically induced coma to aid in his recovery, his family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community and emergency responders. Ryan emphasizes the collective effort made by those who rendered assistance during his son's rescue, acknowledging that Zane owes his ongoing recovery to their help. The psychological and emotional impact of the incident weighs heavily on the family, but they remain hopeful for Zane's long-term health and recovery. This event serves as a stark reminder of how quickly circumstances can turn in outdoor adventures and the utmost importance of ensuring safety while hiking and climbing.