The Terrifying Last Moments of David Sharp on Everest

Near the summit of Mount Everest in the death zone on the ridge of the north face there is a shallow cave, known infamously to all who climb there as the location where in 1996 an Indian man named Tsewang Paljor lay down to rest and never got up again. That man is referred to as green boots.
Almost exactly ten years later, on the morning of May 14, 2006 a small team of mountaineers climbing toward the summit were surprised to find another climber seated there, barely alive sitting next to green boots. It was one of the coldest nights of the season. The man in the cave was David Sharp, an English mountaineer who was on his third expedition to Everest.
During the time David Sharp* was sitting in the cave many people passed by, thinking there was nothing they could do to help. News of this reached the outside world and soon an international furor erupted over the death of David Sharp. Even Sir Edmund Hillary weighed in, outraged at the incident.
This is the story of David Sharp.
*photo at :27 is mistakenly shown as David Sharp. The gentleman in the photo is Lincoln Hall, who was on the mountain the same year, and endured an epic less than two weeks after David Sharp's passing. He was left for dead, but survived the ordeal.
TIME STAMPS
00:06 - Introduction to David Sharp story
1:33 - New and worldwide furor
2:37 - Overview of video contents
4:17 - Extreme conditions on Mount Everest and physiological response to altitude
5:50 - The Happiness Quotient
6:11 - who was David Sharp, his experience, friendship with Jamie McGunness
7:54 - 2003 Everest expedition & 2004 Everest
8:54 - David Sharp’s plane for 2006 Everest & deal with Asian Trekking & Jamie’s offer to climb with his team
10:43 - David Sharp departs for summit on 14 May & series of events afterward
13:32 -Turkish team passes David Sharp as he sits in cave
14:40 - Jamie sits with Dawa Sherpa who had tried to help David Sharp
15:38 - the news reaches the media and international reaction to David Sharp’s death
17:45 - who is to blame?
20:00 - David Sharp’s mother weighs in and Asian Trekking/low budget expedition operators
21:53 - wrap up
REFERENCES, MATERIAL AND RESEARCH FOR THE STORY INCLUDE:
Everest Left For Dead · The David Sharp Story:
• Everest Left For Dead ...
Legendary Hungarian Climber DISAPPEARS On Everest:
• Legendary Hungarian Cl...
Also
Jamie McGuinness interview on The Happiness Quotient about being a sherpa on Mount Everest and the telling of the David Sharp and Lincoln Hall stories:
Podcast version: www.buzzsprout.com/268133/862...
KZbin audio version: • This Everest Guide Bec...
Jamie McGuinness' guiding: project-himalaya.com/
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DISCLAIMER:
Thank you for watching this video! We want to clarify that some of the footage used in this content is intended for educational purposes, providing commentary and analysis on the subject matter. We respect copyright holders and have made efforts to attribute the sources wherever possible. Our goal is to enhance the educational value of our content, fostering understanding and critical thinking.
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Sincerely,
Everest Mystery

[@HumbleMysteriesPodcast]

Quite frankly, I don't think there should be a lot of expectations on rescue from people who choose to give themselves such low chances of survival. Not fair to risk more lives.

[@dukecraig2402]

There isn't, they know the risks, all expectations come from the people who comment on videos that believe they should, he was an experienced climber who'd been to Everest before I'm sure he understood that at that altitude the chances of being saved are slim to none.

[@Heather_T]

Lives are also raised retrieving bodies from the mountain.

[@adventurfly879]

Although I technically agree with you, sometimes you just have to put yourself on the line to help others. That's the definition of courage and what most of these climbers displayed was selfish cowardice. But you are responsible for yourself up there and most don't want to put others I'm danger.

[@JohnDavidHays]

I can tell you from much personal experience in the outdoors that people who don’t look after their own gear will eventually become a very serious burden on others who do.

[@Sheltowee1775]

I’m a pastor. I didn’t really understand Everest or mountain climbing at the time. The most dangerous thing I do is surf. TV. 😎. I have an interest in all of this now. I’m not a climber, but I was curious and remember I used a quote from the David Sharp story that “There is no morality at 25,000 feet”. I was outraged … and I was wrong. I can’t imagine having to make that brutal decision but you’re only halfway there when you reach the summit and you’re in the death zone. Should others die to save a person? I believe I’d try to save a friend or family member yet I might try to talk them out of saving me in fear of them dying. Sharp was clearly a good person and bravo for being adventurous and all, but he clearly made some poor decisions. Very sad. I feel for the guy. Sorry for his family. Thank you for a well researched video. So sad to hear about him crying. Ugh. He knew it was over.

[@uberwookie1]

I always thought that Hillary was incredibly unfair about the entire sitaution. He knows how much weight his words carry and to somehow suggest that a double amputee should have rescued another climber from high on Everest was completely outrageous.

[@arenzefischer8090]

Thank you for refering to Tsewamg Paljor by name, not just his 'nickname'. Saying his name gives him back his humanity, and his individual identity. ❤

[@lindaroth6273]

His fate was in his own hands, as you said. 3rd attempt with no money....he made poor decisions and knew that nobody up there was under obligation to save him. Poor guy

[@lindaroth6273]

P.S Your channel and coverage....excellent.

[@kymcha]

@@lindaroth6273 Only the most gifted climbers (physiological and psychological) have climbed Everest without supplemental oxygen. David had suffered frost bite on two previous climbs (losing toes) and yet headed up on his third attempt without supplemental oxygen. Since oxygen helps keep one warm, David getting incapacitating frost bite was inevitable. Definitely had summit fever down at sea level and he paid the ultimate price.

[@ACshinealight]

Killed by his passion alone

[@jaredwd40]

I hate that Mark Inglis received so much criticism for what happened to Sharp. Hillary blasting him was also totally unnecessary. It’s truly tragic, but Sharp made bad decisions. Blaming a double amputee who was far from the only person to walk past him makes zero sense.

[@kayla1245768]

Exactly. What was a double amputee supposed to do?!

[@jaredwd40]

@@kayla1245768 Hilary never faced the problem of running into a climber beyond saving. He never had to make that choice so it’s easy for him to SAY what should’ve been done, but I’d like to know what he would’ve done had he been in MARK’s shoes (so to speak, and not to make a bad joke- Mark’s the man)

[@kayla1245768]

@@jaredwd40 right it just amazes me that he could even think to place any amount of blame on him. And Hilary was his hero so that hurt him a lot to hear.

[@jaredwd40]

@@kayla1245768 I think by the time Hillary made the comment, his dogs probably weren’t all barking (no disrespect to the fella) and it could’ve been a slip of the tongue, but the damage was done and it wasn’t fair to Mark. I watched the Discovery episode where they captured footage of people trying to help Sharp and even an experienced Sherpa couldn’t move him 3-4 feet without having to stop. I feel horrible beyond words for Sharp’s family, but he made his own decisions and they cost him- don’t put that on Inglis, Ed (R.I.P.)

[@cappy2282]

I remember i told my friend this story and first thing he said was; "Wait, why did Hillary blame the guy with no legs?" 😂

[@Chrissy85308]

I would think that most people who go to climb Everest know that if you get in trouble in the death zone there is not much of a chance of rescue because it would put others at risk. Even at lower elevations the risk is extremely high for rescuers from what I have read and seen. Great video!!

[@EverestMystery]

Yes, totally agree. Any rescue in the death zone is exceptional and unlikely.... Thanks for your thoughts!

[@josi4251]

I appreciate how respectfully you sum up David Sharp's experience and death on Everest. In some ways, I feel as if Sharp had some sort of death wish, deliberately bypassing all safety measures. He knew well the potential cost of his folly, and he went anyway. It's all very sad but not all that surprising.

[@sonja5809]

I think what isn't emphasised enough is why the people passing cannot be expected to rescue people. Those people sitting there are dying. But so is every single person passing them. Even though they're still walking, they're also already dying in the death zone. The critics sit at home, in their warm, cosy chairs, and they have no idea what they're asking. And even the other climbers criticising, are not there anymore, and most of them face the intense backlash too, and it's either being also bashed or saying platitudes to appease the crowd. All those people were just a hair's width from sitting at the side and dying themselves, and any interruption could have killed them. One person alone has not ever managed to save anyone on that mountain who wasn't able to walk. They are also subjected to the same impacts on perception and prone to hallucinations and false impressions.

[@chrismontgomery4204]

Well said! It seems like it's so easy for people that have never been in that situation to lay blame on others

[@wes4619]

Sherpa have literally carried people down on their backs but he didn't have one

[@ChaennieBP_123]

Each individual tourist climber knows the risks. Nobody should expect to be rescued that high up. The Sherpas do SO MUCH for these climbers to get the mountain ready for them and typically survive. It's only when the Sherpas have to rescue an inexperienced climber that they end up getting hurt or dying themselves. It's every man for himself up on Mount Everest, so I don't know why anyone would ever want to go with family.

[@TaryaKarina]

Excellent comment!

[@nuancolar7304]

One can understand knee jerk reactions from media and reporters, but I was rather surprised that Sir Edmund Hillary was so quick to denounce others when he obviously did not have all the facts surrounding Sharp's situation.

[@dubbledub4588]

I don't find Sharp's death to be controversial at all; in fact, I find it to be an expected result considering how he handled his business. No less sad, but a very intelligent man made some very foolish decisions. Another great video on a great channel. Thank you for your thorough, respectful efforts.

[@AuthorLaurieAnnSmith]

Thank you for covering David's tragic story. I have watched several commentaries about this sad and tragic event but none with so much care and compassion. This continues to break my heart 😪💔

[@George_Lewis]

I'm reminded of the British aviator and mystic, Maurice Wilson, who attempted to climb Everest all alone and perished on the mountain in 1934. All too often people look at events, such as Sharp's death, and decide where there is a victim there must also be a villain. In their minds, everyone who passed Sharp without lending a hand is a villain. In reality, Sharp was the victim of his own ambition and the villain (if there ever was was one) was the mountain. It's as simple as that. RIP David Sharp.

[@ilyab.5127]

Just because of many comments like this one, people feel like they don't need to help a fellow human being whatsoever. They see a person dying and have zero empathy or care for a fellow human. What a wonderful world we live in 👍 While in reality with a bit more believe and motivation, those people actually could be saved even from the death zone. Just the approach is just immediately abandon them no matter what.

[@karakoram4613]

I love the story of Wilson. Herzog should make a film about him.

[@George_Lewis]

@@karakoram4613 Agreed. Wilson was certainly eccentric. He wasn't about to let anyone, or any government, get in his way of climbing Everest. It was certainly luck that Shipton's 1935 expedition found his remains so that much of his story could be pieced together.

[@peggyleadingham4528]

With his risky approach he may have been one of those people who were a legend in their own mind. His having been up there 3 times apparently taught him nothing. He knew he could not be rescued in case of catastrophe. he should have at least carried some oxygen. So many tales of climbers trying to reach the top with no sort of support. I just have to wonder why.

[@christosvoskresye]

The loss of toes was a warning that should not have been ignrored.

[@virginiaspinelli-buser4420]

I remember reading that David Sharp wanted to go without assistance or extra oxygen to make history as getting to the top without any help. So, although he died, he did demonstrate that we all need to help each other. We don't need to go it alone to accomplish great things.

[@DouglasCarnall]

He thought he was Rheinholt Meissner but he wisnae

[@thefivews4720]

@@DouglasCarnallI was going to say that

[@matawherolloyd236]

Just returned from Base Camp Trek and was able to pay my respects to David at his memorial. Sobering feeling being the same age as David, having seen this doco before I trekked and then looking up from EBC and thinking about all who still lay permanently a part of Chomolungma. As a new zealander, I also made sure to pay respects to Rob Hall. I feel for Mark Inglis. What was heaped on him was unfair in my opinion. RIP David. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

[@picahudsoniaunflocked5426]

I really appreciate you using the real names of people who remained on the mountain.

[@bigwaidave4865]

Thank you for the hard work that you put into these stories. They are much appreciated all around the world for those of us who love everything, Everest and the Himalaya. I think David as a climber, would have accepted all the risks and would not have wanted to put any other climber or Sherpa in danger. That is the price one pays for making an attempt on Everest and I believe David accepted that risk and ultimately died an honorable death.

[@traceywoodbridge3396]

WELL SAID AND PERFECTLY SAID

[@dukecraig2402]

God speed David, may you rest in peace.

[@jgs1703]

One dead person can turn into multiple dead people trying to rescue somebody. Sounds like he made alot of mistakes too. RIP. Sounds like it would be a hard way to go.

[@thitichayattt]

Thank you for presenting David Sharp's story. I had asked you to present his story because I found him so pitiful. Being left alone to die was torture and climbing the mountain without a team was extremely dangerous.I have studied his story quite a bit and every time I watch his story I feel sad. It is so painful that when a person cannot move their body and there is no oxygen, it is the most painful death. I would like to know the full name of the Sherpa who helped David. I have a friend named Dawa who is a Sherpa. I thank you for featuring David's story. Sharp and I will continue to support your channel. Thank you.❤❤

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks for the great comment and also for suggesting the story. The Dawa Sherpa was from Arun Treks. There are many Dawa's out there, not sure if this is your friend. Thanks so much for supporting the channel and for sharing your thoughts on David Sharp, as well.

[@wheelchair_charlie]

It's called "The Death Zone" for a reason, how can anyone be blamed for not risking their life to save someone who was stuck in the zone and purposely under equipped. Not meaning to sound callous but if anyone is to be blame its David Sharp for being stubbornly under equipped for such a dangerous feat.

[@user-cw8hw8vo7g]

Not a climber anymore more ski touring. Two rules for me - carry the right gear and always always go with an expert guide. I've spent hours searching for people who didn't follow these rules and who would be alive if they had. Having said this, if you find someone like this for god's sake show care and compassion. Thanks again Thom

[@mountresplendent]

He had his reasons that no one can truly know. His risk assessment was his own as well. May he rest. Thank you for your video

[@acleanpairofsocks]

David had multiple chances and turned them down. He thought he knew better and wouldn’t need oxygen or Sherpa support. Then everyone else (who *had* prepared correctly and were following safety protocols) gets blamed for not ruining their own chances in order to fix his mistakes? I also can’t help but be annoyed at Hillary. He’s to be respected of course but he’s not king of the mountain and he even said himself things have changed since he climbed it. He didn’t understand the situation and singled out the poor double amputee as if it was even remotely his responsibility to force David down the mountain. David knowingly put himself and everyone around him in danger.

[@schneewitschen101]

This is what makes Everest so dangerous. To a degree, you can’t count on help. If you get yourself in trouble and you’re too weak to stand yourself, no one can really bail you out without jeopardizing themselves. Everyone else at that level is exhausted and oxygen deprived.

[@musicalstar21]

what's crazy to me is how so many people are blaming the amputee... what about all the able bodied people on the mountain that did the same thing??

[@deadastronaut2440]

David Sharp was a true mountaineer. He measured himself, and himself only against the mountain. Unlike others he was not expecting some big time rescue by an army of Sherpas that he paid off to risk their lives for him. He lost, but he lost honestly which is a lot more than you can say about other so-called "mountaineers".

[@honeyLXIX]

ive listened to people tell this story but it is nice to hear you tell it. thank you for respectfully telling these people's stories

[@serenestevens7248]

People are quick to judge without knowing the situation. You take a risk every time you climb. Accountability. Super cool channel. Love the topic and content.

[@Hootncozy]

Every week I look at your channel first. I 💯 love your channel and it has really been knowledgeable and has help grow my understanding of adventurous explorers and why they do what they do. I have seen this story on other channels but you give it depth and humanity. ❤

[@melodymacken9788]

Brilliantly said... great conversation with facts and no judgments. Rotorua, New Zealand 🇳🇿

[@knightyknight5399]

He made some very poor decisions..He must of new the consequences for his actions..The climbers were not selfish...Never underestimate Mount Everest

[@teijaflink2226]

Seems David was very clear that he wanted to do it himself and without a Sherpa even when he was offered to go with a team so he must have known about the danger and possibility that no one would be able to help him. Who knows if he he has some deeper motive.

[@msbeecee1]

Sounds to keep like he was on a suicide mission. He wasn't ignorant of the dangers

[@lindasd7591]

Excellent presentation!! Thk you!!

[@wanrapea]

I love the stories, the way you tell them. The real people & their hope to climb tall mountains. For each mountaineer there are choices made along the way, to give them their best chance to summit & then to return safely. The entire endeavor is uncontrollable, no matter the choices. It is a risky business altogether. I'm very sad to hear of the loss. My sympathy goes out to his family & friends, especially to Jamie McGinness. But each person's life is their own responsibility.

[@SharonNolfi]

Thank you for another thoughtful video. I'm not a climber but admire those who are.

[@AshleyMarie-mr4ry]

I always enjoy your videos! Thank you! To anyone who is going to watch the eclipse🌑☀️😎 today I hope that you are safe and enjoy the experience!!😊

[@EverestMystery]

99.4% coverage where I live, not a long drive to get to 100%. Thanks for watching!

[@ryans2848]

I watched that doc with russle omg it’s amazing I can’t get enough of it

[@IOSALive]

Everest Mystery , This made me laugh so hard, thanks for sharing!

[@janetmariededick6061]

Sorry David made such unwise decisions and others were blamed for not risking their lives for this guy. I watched Russell Brice’s show Beyond the Limit and I can’t believe Edmund Hillary put the blame on Mark? I mean he picks on the guy with no legs who he himself needed help down the mountain. Unbelievable.

[@krisushi1]

I'm going to be rather blunt here. The only person that I can put the blame on the death of David Sharp is David Sharp himself. He had been up the mountain twice before and knew how treacherous it is. Despite this, he was so full of arrogance in his own abilities, or lack thereof, and failed in the most obvious ways to ensure his own safety. Why should anyone else die because David didn't care about his own life himself? He clearly wasn't prepared, had no radio, sat. phone, Sherpa or a climbing partner and most importantly - Oxygen! This isn't called the Death Zone for nothing and David Sharp knew this. No matter the rather generous offers he received from others to help him to summit, he didn't want any part of their help. All he wanted was to do everything his way or not at all. Why this story keeps coming up is beyond me. Look at all of the other deaths involving well prepared climbers who did take precautions and were as equipped as could be, yet still died. Why so much emphasis on a man who didn't even care about his own life? Who invited Hillary to weigh in on something that he was not even a part of, nor was it his right to blame anyone for what went on during that fateful day. He wouldn't have been able to do anything more than what all the other climbers did, so I'd rather he just butt out. I lost all respect in Hillary after hearing him endlessly stating that he would never share who set foot on the summit of Everest first, he or Tenzing Norgay. Before he passed away, he did admit to who stood on Everest first, going against everything he had always stated. This has left me disgusted since I first heard of it. Hillary wasn't even experienced in modern day mountaineering, so who is he to speak about something that he has never gone through. He didn't have to line up in long lines awaiting to get up to the summit in the freezing temperatures, losing precious oxygen with each passing moment. I watched Nordwand again last night and have much more respect for Toni Kurtz than what I have for Hillary. Look up 'resilience' in the dictionary and there you'll find the name of Toni Kurtz, not Edmund Hillary. So many well prepared and equipped experienced climbers and Sherpas have lost their lives tragically, yet David Sharp is being brought up yet again. Anyone with the slightest knowledge of high-altitude mountaineering can easily understand how dangerous it is to summit Everest despite being fully prepared. How many were expected to lose their lives to help a man who didn't care about his own life? Where does the number stop? After the first two failed attempts, David knew that he needed a team to help him summit as he didn't have the ability to do it alone. It's quite rare for those to make it alone, especially as ill-prepared as David was. Can we please concentrate in future on giving a shout out to those who do things the right way, whether they summit or not, on any high-altitude mountain or one known for being dangerous. David Sharp was negligent and no-one should have lost their lives to help one with so little care for his own well-being. I did say that this would be blunt. Take care everyone.🇦🇺

[@krisushi1]

@BB-xx3dv I totally agree and he paid the ultimate price for this arrogance. I'm only commenting on the events on Everest that day and due to never having known David Sharp, would never dare to state that he was that way towards others. From what I've heard, he was a very nice guy. I just wish he had of listened to those who knew better.💖

[@krisushi1]

@BB-xx3dv I'm not sure at what angle you're coming from with this comment? Are you suggesting that David may of had personal issues that kept him trying to summit or am I totally missing your point?💖

[@krisushi1]

@BB-xx3dv Thanks for clarifying. Unfortunately, we will never know why David continued to conquer the mountain. I completely understand wishing to accomplish something, yet not sharing why with anyone else. I suppose we all have our reasons for doing certain things and not wanting to explain ourselves to others. I think you've hit upon the most likely scenario for why David kept trying. Thanks so much for taking the time to read my rather long comment and also responding, it's greatly appreciated.💖

[@Aye-zn9uh]

It was his fault, you're right...So bad that other mountaineers got blamed for his irresponsibility

[@somjasa]

@@krisushi1 In the dead zone life and death goes hand in hand. No matter what you do, you will die staying to long with or without extra oxygen. I think the very cold temperature, no oxygen and fatigue was the main reasons causing him to die, alone in that shallow cage. Of what I read about him I like to think he was a humble soul wanting to do things his own way and of no bother to other people. I feel so sad thinking of David Sharp because he died alone still so close to passing people who couldn't save him even if all of them tried. That's what he knew waving all passing away, I think. So sad. RIP David Sharp.

[@THX5000]

Seeing these clips of long lines on Everest, it seems like some regulations need to be put in place to limit the numbers of people. The US Park Service often limits the numbers of people allowed in high impact areas.

[@ragingwolf1481]

99% of Nepal's revenue comes from climbing expeditions and other climbing related tourism so they're not going to limit permits which I think is wrong. As for the long lines even if I was physically able to climb Everest the lines would make it a hard NO!

[@darthlaurel]

It might as well be just another tourist destination these days. I don't see the honor and adventure in standing in a queue.

[@scottmcburney8938]

The problem, as I understand it, is that the weather window for summiting is too inconsistent. Some years it's a couple days, others a couple weeks. The same number of permits, will have a much different set of issues in different years.

[@michaelmyers7416]

Very well reasoned. I have just discovered your channel. I loved your shirt. Around 2000 I was supposed to go to the shining wall on Gasherbrum IV. permit issues and……… I am still alive to follow other peoples adventures.☠️🧐

[@DSToNe19and83]

I personally don’t think I could live with myself if it didn’t at least try to help the fella. I’m also just a flat grounder with no desire to climb that monster..

[@MomCatMeows]

I feel like they need to decide to either tell people they are fending for themselves past a certain point on the mountain, or, have an organized rescue team on standby at all times. If there aren't any clear policies then there will always be these debates. 🤷‍♀️ Great video!

[@Wyant1]

Agreed, 100%. I'm no mountaineer, not even a hiker really, so maybe my opinion isn't worth as much, but there's got to be some sort of protocol, especially now that, what, something like 3,000 people have summited Everest? It's surprising to me that some Christian missionaries haven't purchased some yaks and made it their life's work to save people, or something to that effect. However, it seems there are a lot of politics involved to even get near the mountain, and you know how that crap goes.

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

​​@@Wyant1 the conditions are so extreme at camp three and four, that people can't stay there long, so the idea of having a rescue group in place there, isn't feasible and no one would take such a job. Rescue climbers have come up from camp two, to bring down someone from one of the higher camps, but it takes hours for them to arrive and hours to descend. As for a group coming from camp two to rescue someone at the summit, that person would be dead before the rescue arrived. You can't get yaks up the mountain either. Yaks can't cross ladders or climb sheer ice faces. Sherpa guides have brought sick and injured people down, but they usually bring them down from one of the camps. It's extremely difficult to bring someone down from the Hilary Step, and impossible if the person can't help themselves a little. Beck Weathers is the only person I've heard of; that was given up for dead; and got himself up and walked down to camp four.

[@Wyant1]

Oh, I understand. Clearly though, Everest wasn't summited by allowing words like "extreme" or "can't" to influence thoughts. And, obviously the biggest perk of the job wouldn't be the pay, but instead the prestige of dedicating one's life to rescuing folks when it seems impossible.

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

@@Wyant1 they have started flying a helicopter into camp two, to pick up non ambulatory climbers, which to me, is a miracle in itself. But the person has to be transported down to that level. Someone posted a video of that happening, and it's awe inspiring.

[@skullsaintdead]

All the people (& newspapers, who feel the need to sensationalise to sell stories) that say he was left for dead: I wonder, have they ever tried rescuing someone that doesn't want to be saved and/or can't move even at _sealevel_ ? Its 70-100kgs of dead weight. Impossible to lift, incredibly difficult to drag. Im a 63kg 32 year old woman (with severe chronic pain, but aside from that) there's no way I could try and lift someone at sealevel, let alone at 8,000 meters, with 2/3rds less oxygen. You're barely able to put one step in front of the other. You have to think of your own survival & ensure not more people die because someone else took risks (and honestly, testament to David that he didn't want people to endanger themselves for his choices). Mark Inglis & Co were almost certainly very out of it & probably did think they radioed base camp to call for help. Hilary lost my respect a while ago when I saw how judgemental and self-aggrandising he seemed to be with respect to mountineering & rescues. Didn't appear to have a lot of empathy tbh. Also credit to Davids mum who said he knew what he was doing & didn't blame anyone for his death - I wish more people who are sitting comfortably in a chair at sealevel (& have never had to lift 70+kgs in their life) were this empathetic & self-aware.

[@blas4me50]

Watching a group of climbers pass by the cave, and seeing a guy frozen in place, seated on a rock, was kind of haunting.

[@peachiep2734]

I agree... Seeing someone in that condition would put me straight in a panic attack mode. I'm really thinking that Sharp went there knowing what was going to happen and he went out the way he wanted at the place he loved. Everyone knows the risks when climbing Everest and I think all David wanted to do was reach the top of Everest which he accomplished,

[@JohnDavidHays]

This is a good one Thom.

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks so much and for your support!

[@Usachatnow]

Such a sad story over all. I see the temptation of wanting to climb Everest but for me it’s way to dangerous to try to climb it

[@allanfrederick8705]

Great video Thom. I totally agree that judging a persons actions in regards to helping a climber in distress or not is a not cut and dried judgement call. Situations are all different and I think NOBODY really has a right to make comments on another persons decisions at high altitude. That said, I am not a mountaineer, just my take. I think people that criticize other climbers should be the climbers that were there on the mountain with them at the time. Only they could really know the situation, and maybe not even then.

[@user-or4hs7xq9u]

David was living his dream, he choose difficulties and hardship to climb Everest on his own terms, brave man

[@melodymacken9788]

Nicely said.

[@msbethmildhyperbaricoxygen6392]

Great video as usual. Seems to me anyone that attempts such an extreme climb solo has to know the risks and shouldn’t depend on others to risk their lives. God bless those that were willing to try but at that height people with low O2 don’t think rationally and then with cold setting in🥶 He died doing something he loved.

[@archivist68]

Thank you for your work on this video! I believe there can be no "standard" approach to rescue in the Death Zone. Decisions made there appear to be highly personal ones based on local, specific circumstances. One climber might be able to help another, or not. The world wants to assign blame. It does not like this kind of ambiguity.

[@fotograf736]

Just a clarification: first Turkish climber ascending Everest was Nasuh Mahruki in 1995, he used one canister of O. I remember the year well because it was just one year before the infamous 1996 tragedy, so the Turkish team ascending in 2006 could not possibly be the first so that minor point settled. As for David Sharp, I think he was psychologically in a very bad place, and he had tied his self worth to being able to climb Everest without O alone, and if that didn't turn out well, he didn't care much if he lived or died. Ironically it was a similar circumstance with that of Mallory. Many of the other teams that passed by probably weren't aware of the gravity of the situation and later it was too late. So while I cannot place blame on anybody who happened to pass by him least of all the sherpa who tried his best to save him, I think Sir Hillary's outburst was a necessary reminder to our responsibilities to our fellow human beings, a neglect not just reserved for Everest.

[@EverestMystery]

Great comment, super insightful. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to share your thoughts

[@cypriano8763]

imo david was living his dream and wall fully aware of the risks involved. no one should feel guilty for not aiding him. He may well have succeded if the weather was slightly better. he climbed the mountain in the purest fasion and should be respected for that.

[@carolescutt2257]

I'm a voyeur of mountaineers absolutely no knowledge and or in any position to comment. The david sharp story is the first to grabmy interest nearly 20 years after the fact. He seemed a man on a mission who possibly accepted his fate before he left ABC nevertheless a bright guy but as Thom said gobbled up by his passion and having had similar with fast racing motorbikes the thrill is addictive RIP brave David x

[@demiljim306]

For anyone else looking to do Everest on the cheap, the tent used by David can be purchased today through Sunday at Walmart for $39.95.

[@brewcrew5854]

i hear those tents are flying off the shelves in cali gotta act fast !

[@KB-ld6ql]

Tent designed for 25 kph winds.

[@ASlightlyTwistedFemale]

From one channel to another- love your work! Always glad to see a new upload. I dream of Everest, though I likely will never go. I would love to if I could

[@animeshpurohit8727]

Never Say Never!

[@ASlightlyTwistedFemale]

@@animeshpurohit8727true!!

[@littlebird2573]

girl we have such weird overlaps. please do not go to everest, the GC community needs you to not die on some fucked up mountain in nepal

[@ASlightlyTwistedFemale]

@@littlebird2573 haha hey!! It’s so funny to see my GC peoples on random unrelated content channels like this 😝 I knowwww but I really have like, a secret burning desire to do Everest 😩 I don’t know why, but I got really fixated on it lol. But the trash piles on the mountain are totally a turn off. Sigh… I’ll continue to dream! 😘cheers

[@monikavarro2020]

New subscriber! I'm familiar with this story. Also, you're great at talking to the camera, sir! I'm about to binge watch your videos. Very interesting! 😃 I feel like the climbers who passed him and left him to die would have risked their own lives and it wasn't safe or possible to get David Sharpe down. He couldn't walk by himself and was near death. He accepted the risks when he went there without oxygen or radio or another person who could assist him if something went wrong. People who climb Mt Everest accept the possibility of dying in their attempt to reach the summit.

[@jandedick7519]

I will never understand why Sir Edmund attacked Mark and only Mark? The guy with no legs. Many many people passed by David that night. I watched this play out on the show Beyond the Limit. My heart broke for Mark. Sir Edmund was way off base for blaming one man and one man who himself had to be carried on the back of Russell’s head Sherpa’s half way down the mountain. David Sharp really has only himself to blame for dying. Don’t get me wrong it’s gut wrenching for this young man to die on Everest.

[@020nils]

David Sharp was badass

[@carolescutt2257]

Agreed 😊

[@Garde538]

Agreed ❤

[@tracymetherell8744]

No O2, no support. He made a CHOICE It seems almost suicidal……

[@Itried20takennames]

There were s a belief among many that if you just believe and try hard enough, you can reach any goal. It helps some do impressive things, but it can also lead to some bad decisions.

[@fishkapb]

0:27 This foto is not of David Sharp, but of Lincoln Hall, who was also left for death only 10 days after David Sharps' death. But Hall had miraculously survived after spending night unconscious at the same height as Sharp did.

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you, correct. That ended up in a folder of Jamie McGuinness' photos from '03. I will put a note in the description and mention it in the video forthcoming about Lincoln, which is an amazing story.

[@fishkapb]

@@EverestMystery Thank you for your extraordinary educational stories! You pay so much attention for details, and I appreciate it so much! Although my English is not very well, I can understand the most of what you say. Thank you one more time. I keep following you with big interest.

[@wonderTLE]

new subs here! hello from the philippines

[@EverestMystery]

Hello! Thank you! I have visited your fine country before....I'm happy to have you here

[@christac1526]

His own choices brought him to his end. No idea why someone else gets blamed. Everyone needs to do whats right for themselves up high on Everest. Putting your own life at risk for someone else - NO WAY

[@wyattearp9656]

This case is situational to David and his own actions. Had he been a climber that hired a Sherpa and had Oxygen with him. The funny thing is a double amputee was the one people pointed out as inhumane. David went without 02 and without Sherpa support. David created this disaster, even his mother said in this situation it was every man for himself. Had this been a team member, yes it would have been wrong to walk on by. David once he lost his mobility this trip was done. The interesting thing is something very paranormal happened in this situation. 2 climbers swear they called Russell yet he says he was not contacted until much later. Russell is one of the few men that if he told me to jump off the mountain I would jump. This man is one of the most honorable men in mountain business. If you set out to prove something and throw caution to the wind. Well I guess I'll say this. David died doing something he loved. Mark did nothing wrong. David died making bad decisions

[@janetmariededick6061]

Well said!

[@teijaflink2226]

It has really bothered me that people seemed to specially put blame on the double amputee, there where several people who passed David in extreme conditions and came to the conclusion that they where not able to help him.

[@miscosas]

@@teijaflink2226 didn't he said in the video there was a tv crew with him? So probably experienced people helping the tv people 😉

[@chrismontgomery4204]

​@@miscosasthere was nothing said about any TV crew, he said his Sherpas (and 1 other man) had Go Pro cameras on their helmets, they were doing the filming. David Sharp didn't take emergency oxygen or even a radio and he refused help from numerous people, it's tragic but the blame lies solely on him.

[@wyattearp9656]

@@chrismontgomery4204 exactly 💯

[@SoundGGirl]

It’s terrifying to think David rested near Green Boots…..…..I wonder, sitting next to Green Boots, if David ever considered that he was on path to meet the same fate. How terrifying this must’ve been.

[@dw13645]

I think people who actually climb and those who know folks who do for the most part understand the risk and decide to do it anyways for their own reasons. It’s people who don’t have any connection or understanding of this mindset who get very upset when stories like this happen. The death zone is just that and for a reason. It’s absolutely tragic that anyone dies, but more people being put at risk by making risky rescues isn’t always the answer. Hilary’s response always felt like a reaction more towards what he perceived as a culture change in a place that he was so connected to, rather than a logical reaction.

[@endurance-adventures]

Seems like the Sherpa tried everything to save him but if he had stayed any longer he would have risked his own life (if he was there 30 minutes he had probably already stayed longer than is safe). You really can't expect others to risk their lives when he decided to go unsupported

[@armandocardenas6094]

I believe that sadly, when they got to him, it was already late; same thing with Arsentiev.

[@karinbergman1646]

Such a tragic event. Certainly David chose his mode of travel and did not seem to have the means to make a safe climb. Anything can happen there, at any level. Weather can change in a heartbeat, and on the best day conditions are still brutal. To be without oxygen and proper gear for those temps ensures disaster. And who can blame other climbers? They have their own lives to worry about. People did try to help him but he knew he was beyond help and unable to even stand up. I know there was a lot of melting and Green boots was becoming more exposed. Maybe they were able to retrieve the bodies of Green boots and David. May they rest in peace and be at one with the mountain. 🙏🏻🥀💗🥀🙏🏻

[@schwabra]

The desire to face challenges alone is a personal one. While I respect it, there is still glory to be had in accomplishing something as a group. I hope David reached his personal summit. I would have rather been able to celebrate it with him sometime. The first rule of rescue is to make sure you do not become another victim. Whether swimming, climbing, hiking, or whatever you have a responsibility to yourself before others. That is what makes the sacrifices of those who exchange their safety for those in need.

[@EverestMystery]

Absolutely.....thanks for your insights :)

[@romankrhounek5974]

Hi man long time fan I was wondering if you can do the story on Shreya Shah Klorifine the Canadian woman that climbed everest with no experience and died descending running out of oxygen

[@EverestMystery]

I’ve been researching that one! Thanks so much for reaching out ~ I’ll definitely get to that one. Cheers

[@romankrhounek5974]

@@EverestMystery There is a Canadian Fifth Estate on her on here that's very good I just want your opinion and take on what the hell happened and how the chain of events came to be

[@celticlizardqueen]

I felt rage when I first heard the story but not at the climbers. My anger was at the media outlets and their ignorant rage bating. I’m not a climber or a mountaineer or anything but even I can understand that in an environment like Everest, taking the risk to try to save someone could mean the loss of even more life. Hard decisions have to be made and the safety of the majority needs to come before the safety of one.

[@marylouaguero7060]

David for sure knew about the limited help there is once on that mountain. Wasn’t the first attempt to the Summit. The risk to take with no oxygen supplement. Can’t blame no one but himself for not taking better precautions.

[@Cashcrop54]

I only heard of this when "Everest Beyond the Limit was on TV. I don't think anybody could have done anything to save him. I certainly would not expect any climber to risk his/her life to save me from that altitude. That is the deal unless you are at a lower height on the mountain like they did with Mark Inglis in that very series. One Sherpa carried him on his back a long way. They were much lower. I was impressed that Russel called the parents. He really didn't have to. David was not his client.

[@lukycharms9970]

I still don’t understand how Russel Brice says there was no call to him. I could be wrong but I SWEAR I remember watching this season of that show and there is audio over the radio between him and Mark in the show discussing Sharp sitting there. Did anyone watch this show as it was released? Did they cut out this footage days or weeks after the shows aired on Amazon? Am I just misremembering this????? I still swear I remember a recorded conversation in the show between Mark and Brice about what to do when Mark was passing by Sharp and Brice told him to just keep going. Someone please tell me I’m not crazy here…. My girlfriend at the time and I were so invested in this show and we both remember this conversation over the radio between Brice and Mark.

[@tracycameron5099]

No judgement whatsoever.

[@oyajiblues]

If you can’t swim well, don’t jump in the water to save someone.

[@kissa285]

I understand that he can't be saved that high up, it was his own decision to be there in the first place, and nothing likely could have changed the outcome. I don't blame those who passed him by for their decision. However, Everest is one of those challenges you do because you want to prove you to yourself (and others) the type of person you are. I think it takes more courage to have the summit in sight and decide something else is more important, even if saving him was hopeless. No one knows for sure what would have happened had just a few of those who walked by stopped and decided to help out instead because that option wasn't even considered.

[@thescarletandgrey2505]

I understand that principle that you have to look after your own safety and wellbeing, which may mean you have to leave a dying climber on the way up or down. Personally though I would have a hard time once I looked them in the face, exchanged a word or two. I would at least TRY to do something, I would hope.

[@BrianWaller-qe7gr]

In the death zone if you can’t at least walk with assistance you’re going to put other lives at risk

[@dr.nigelcool3771]

I understand the desire to summit mountains, having hiked up a few in Colorado and New Hampshire. But if I had the desire to summit really high mountains, I would try to choose those where I would not have to walk by dead bodies just lying around.

[@wilmabrand321]

I heard in so many of the videos I’ve watched that when your up that high on the mountain its everybody for them selves. I don’t think it’s selfish, it’s survival. And from the videos he climbed by his self with no guide. 🤷🏻‍♀️🇨🇦

[@KDSima]

It isn’t nice that it happened, but he knew what he was doing. R people supposed to force someone to take the steps to survive when they r not taking the steps necessary.

[@cometier]

When you go into risky endeavour it’s unreasonable to expect other people to risk their lives to save yours.

[@mtadams2009]

I really don’t understand why he tried to summit without oxygen, especially since he had already lost body parts in his previous climbs. My friend and I helped to carry a backcountry skier down off of Mount Washington NH, no altitude and it was not very cold. It was very difficult, in those conditions it’s not really possible unless you’re some super human Sherpa maybe. I once had a dream of Everest but the cost and also how many body responded to high altitude ended that dream. You really need to be self aware and not kid yourself. I think in the death zone you’re basically on your own and can’t ask others to risk their lives.

[@rtqii]

I don't know if Jim Wickwire is still able to give an interview, but he was the last person to see Marty Hoey alive. Of course there are enough Everest fatalities to keep a channel busy, more every year it seems.

[@valinormons]

It seems he was very independent minded and if he could have lived to tell the tale, I'm sure it would have been a good one.

[@leapinglizard3937]

I wonder if Mr Sharp was waving for assistance, instead everything thought he was waving them away.

[@sallyspencer5624]

Hind sight is 20/20 The Sherpa's are troupers and are the true hero's of the mountain and I believe the Sherpa did what he could when he was in the same condition's and altitude as David Sharp. To criticize and say he didn't do enough is cruel, there was no way the Sherpa or anyone else can carry someone down from the mountain at that altitude with only 7% oxygen level. In hospital when oxygen is given to a patient by a nasal tube is 2% when using a facial mask the oxygen given is between 8 and 10% The climbers on Everest use 2% by facial mask which is only a supplement and not very much when exerting the strength it takes to climb the mountain. The tole on the body is horrendous and it is not easy for Sherpa's who do so much for the climbers. I wonder how many people would be able to climb the mountain without the the ropes and ladders to aide them? Even those who say they want to climb Everest without Sherpa aid still use these ropes and ladders which the Sherpa's place for them. These ropes are very solid and secure for so many people using them at the same time. It is crazy to climb the mountain without oxygen as little as it is.

[@kayla1245768]

Summit fever will get you. David made a huge mistake not accepting Jamie’s help. He knew the possible cost but Asian trekking is partially responsible for sending him out there with basically nothing. RIP David.

[@jesusisGod1434]

He obviously had a death wish. God tried to get ahold of him twice before, but that man ignored Him. I’m sorry for his family.

[@law_ra]

The first picture in the Yellow suit is Lincoln Hall.

[@EverestMystery]

Yes, thank you....it's mentioned in the description as a mistake. It slipped by and was noticed shortly after posting.

[@ladyxxmacbeth]

I think what disturbs me slightly is the fact that they didn't try to help him on the way up ... I am aware it was probably futile, but all those people walked past him and didn't seem to attempt to try. I'd like to think if I was in their shoes I would have maybe abandoned my summit attempt and tried to at least comfort someone dying.

[@MobileLegendsNepal]

Easy to say, but its almost the height aeroplanes flies.You can barely walk in steep icy mountain where death is following u ,forget about helping u r not sure u urself will make it alive or not. We r talking about highest peak. People die trekking to Everest base camp because of altitude sickness we are talking about top of the world.

[@annoliviacar268]

In the TV series Everest: Beyond the Limit, it clearly shows Russel Brice telling Max Chaya over the radio to leave David Sharp as he can do nothing for him because of his location. Now, Brice is clearly a liar, even though he has nothing to do with David Sharp or his situation, but denying he was ever told about David's situation is beyond nasty, not to mention he was gaslighting his clients who were report back the situation. Honesty, is the best route.

[@EverestMystery]

Russell was the only one with the decency to visit David's parents in person and inform them of the full story. His parents, in having heard the entire story, understood and knew there was nothing that could have been done to change the outcome.

[@trekshogun]

I know that all the climbers who attempt Everest know the risks associated with trying to climb this mountain,David did,.But unfortunately attempting to climb on your own carries a far greater risk, especially without supplementary oxygen.i don't think David would want any other climber to risk their lives to try and get him down if it meant putting another climber in danger ! Sherpas are the only people that could possibly rescue him,but I think it was too late by the time he was discovered. Rip David 😢

[@allenaviation5746]

Knowing what he knows, Hillary's comments do seem harsh and I can see how Inglis and others could be devistated by them. However, I think there's a big difference between those who stopped to check on Sharp and assess his condition at least-and those who just walked past.

[@conradfrykman-vz4on]

Pay your money, take your chances.

[@tonyallison1115]

It's almost as if David took a comprehensive list of all critical needs and then discarded the list. This was his third attempt , so he would know what all the tangibles were that he required in order to successfully summit and survive. I believe it may have been a simple case of ' third time lucky and it's all or nothing now ' - summit I MUST , sans any support .