Video of Failed Aconcagua Rescue Stirs Controversy

Text by Tetsuhiko Endo

Prosecutors in Buenos Aires, Argentina, are investigating the failed rescue attempt of 31-yea-old climber Federico Campanini on 22,841-foot Aconcagua after a video surfaced of his would-be rescuers apparently standing around doing very little while Campanini lay close to death. The video, which has aired repeatedly on Argentine national television and has nearly 300,000 views on YouTube, has ignited a fire storm of controversy surrounding possible negligence, responsibility, and rescue ethics on one of South America’s most iconic climbs. 

Although circumstances remain hazy, the AP reports that the entire effort lasted 30 hours. In order to reach the altitude at which the video was shot, the volunteer rescuers had to climb in one day what usually takes three to four. The air temperature was -58 degrees Fahrenheit. Check back for updates on this controversy.

Comments

[Aconcagua]

Aconcagua is a serious mountain. It's important to choose a professional guideing team before taking on such a serious expedition. I recommend http://www.expeditioncompany.co.uk/southamerica/southamerica_aconcagua.html

[Hostels in Buenos Aires]

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[Generic Viagra]

really for me has been a pleasure to read this article. I'd like much more information on topic! I support my party always reading. The video was very comprehensive and appropriate content.

[Geordon Rendle]

I just summited Aconcagua January 18th with another Canadian friend. While we hiked there was an Italian climber with a prosthetic leg being filmed by a NatGeo crew. When will that video/episode be released? It was amazing!!!!

Thanks for excellence!!
Geordon

[Roger]

Lots of discussion on Supertopo.com forums. Consensus of people who have never climbed on big mountains is there is no excuse. General consensus among climbers with high altitude experience is the tape is taken out of context and unfairly portrays the rescue.