A 21-year-old rock climber named Stewart Phillip Porter from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, died while climbing Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. He fell while climbing the second pitch of El Cracko Diablo and sustained major injuries. Porter was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. The Devils Tower Law Enforcement found him and his climbing partner around 40 minutes after the fall. The climbing partner was rescued later with the help of climbing guides. Devils Tower National Monument has only had seven climbing deaths in its more than 100-year history. Climbing at Devils Tower is considered inherently dangerous, and climbers are advised to inspect anchors, know rappel routes, start rappels over columns, avoid loose rock, and use two ropes for some rappels. Officials emphasize that majority of climbing accidents and deaths occur during the rappel. The National Park Service does not maintain anchors, so climbers should take necessary precautions for safety while climbing at the monument.
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