The legendary, multi-award winning Russian alpinist Alexey Bolotov tragically died, while plotting a new route on the south-western side of the Mount Everest.

      Together with Denis Urubko, Bolotov was undertaking a uniquely challenging ascent through the middle of the south-western side of the Mount Everest, previously unexplored. Both alpinists were superbly prepared for the task, with years of experience under the belt. Unfortunately, one of the ropes used by local sherpas to mark the most dangerous parts of the walk was of low quality and must have played the fatal part in Bolotov's fall. 

      The tragedy seems to have occurred above the Khumbu Icefall, widely known as the deadliest part of the Mount Everest. The many deaths that happen here often are usually attributed to safety gear, but as this National Geographic article explains, climbers, especially veterans, sometimes get overconfident and skip standard safety precautions. Particularly in case with the Khumbu Icefall, there are ladders that planted in the ice to help cross the icefall, and sherpas and experiences climbers alike either forget, or choose not to clip their harnesses into safety lines before crossing the ladders. It is this mistake that often costs them lives. 

      Alexey Bolotov, 50, was the Fyodor Konyukhov of the altitudes. He conquered 11 out of 14 8000-meter peaks, received many Russian and international awards, and was the only Russian climber invited to France to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Annapurna Ascent.