2 women killed while climbing icy California mountain
BRIDGEPORT, Calif. — Authorities say two women were killed while climbing an icy canyon on California’s Red Slate Mountain.
The Mono County Sheriff’s Office says a helicopter crew spotted the bodies Monday at an elevation of about 12,000 feet. But recovery efforts were delayed a day because of high winds and steep terrain.
The Sheriff’s Office identified the climbers as 22-year-old Michelle Xue of Los Angeles and 34-year-old Jennifer Shedden of Mammoth Lakes.
Officials say the women, who were experienced and well-equipped, were probably struck by falling rocks on the peak in the Sierra above Convict Lake.
The search began after the pair didn’t return as planned on Sunday.
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