I doubt he forgot to drop the rock, most likely he was trying to bring the rock back to prove he had done whatever feat he was attempting. I am sure once he got into trouble he dropped the rock but it may have been too late.
Not knowing enough about the facts, since this is just a sensational headline with no real details in the story, that’s my guess.
Also glad to see the general respect for the dead and humanity posted here. Sigh.
There is very little pity for rank stupidity leading to death. The "here, hold ma beer and watch this" crowd often needs thinning.
Amen. I played this “game” all the time and its just by luck that my lungs did not give out after I had dropped the rock and broke for surface. Sometimes it took longer then I thought to get there