David Sharp (mountaineer)

David Sharp (15 February 1972 – 15 May 2006) was an English mountaineer who died near the summit of Mount Everest. His death caused controversy and debate, because he was passed by a number of other climbers heading to and returning from the summit.

Controversy over death

Sharp was a former mathematics teacher who possibly reached the summit of Mount Everest on his third attempt. He obtained his climbing permit through Asian Trekking, paying $6200 for logistical support up to the advance base camp. He made no provisions for Sherpa or guide support for his summit bid. He also carried no radio with which to contact Asian Trekking, primarily because Asian Trekking lacked the capacity to effect any rescue operation. The following week three other climbers from Asian Trekking also died during summit attempts, Vitor Negrete, Igor Plyushkin , and Thomas Weber .

New Zealand double-amputee climber Mark Inglis revealed in an interview on 23 May 2006 that he thought that Sharp had died, and that he had been passed by 40 other climbers heading for the summit who made no attempt at a rescue. Sharp died under a rock overhang known as "Green Boots Cave", alongside the main climbing trail approximately (elevation) below the summit and (elevation) above Camp 4. Climbing solo with oxygen he had made an attempt to reach the summit during the late afternoon and presumably reaching it, had descended during one of the coldest nights of the year.

The Inglis...
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