Two experienced climbers, Nepali Binod Babu Bastakoti and Kenyan Cheruiyot Kirui, have tragically been found dead near the summit of Mount Everest. The Everest Base Camp officials confirmed the devastating news after both climbers had been missing for several days. Additionally, their guide, Nawang Sherpa, who was accompanying Kirui in the treacherous death zone, is still missing.
Bastakoti reportedly passed away at Camp IV while descending, while Kirui was discovered by rescuers from Seven Summit Treks just a few meters below the summit. According to expedition organisers, Bastakoti succumbed to altitude sickness at around 8,300 meters while descending from the summit point.
Kirui, known for his remarkable climbing achievements, was attempting to climb Everest without supplemental oxygen. He had previously become the first African to summit a peak above 8,000 meters without supplemental oxygen when he conquered Mt. Manaslu in 2023. Kirui’s disappearance was noted when he went off the radio from Bishop Rock.
The climbing community is mourning the loss of these two talented individuals, with Kirui leaving behind a legacy of impressive speed ascents on various mountains. Meanwhile, the search for the missing guide, Nawang Sherpa, continues as the mountaineering world reflects on the risks and challenges of scaling the world’s highest peak.