US medic impaled by hiking pole climbs down Montana mountain, rejects helicopter rescue

David Sifaldi, a 32-year-old medic, was climbing Granite Peak in Montana on July 20 with two friends. Their route crossed the infamous Froze-to-Death Plateau. During the climb, Sifaldi slipped, and his 112-centimeter trekking pole pierced through his body.

Despite the serious injury, he felt no sharp pain and lost little blood. He persuaded his companions to continue descending on their own without calling a rescue helicopter. Rescue crews monitored the group's progress. Team leader Ty Williams said Sifaldi had chosen not to ask for help; there was no danger to others, and they would not impose assistance against his will.

The three descended more than 1,500 meters in six hours along an unmarked trail to their car. Friend Jesse Ross said Sifaldi's confidence in himself was the only reason this was possible. "He is a medical professional. Our job was to support him," Ross said.

Sifaldi explained that search-and-rescue services are free, but helicopter flights cost money. That factor influenced his decision to make his own way down. He also noted that having two experienced friends and the ability to contact rescuers made the choice easier.

He arrived at Billings' St. Vincent Regional Hospital, where he works, with the pole still in his body. Colleagues removed it and treated his wounds. He returned to work a few days later.

Granite Peak is Montana's highest summit and is regarded as one of the most difficult to reach. The area is known for unpredictable, dangerous weather, including thunderstorms and freezing cold. Hundreds of people attempt the climb each year, but not all succeed. In 2019, a 65-year-old experienced climber died after falling about 45 meters following an ascent with his son.