[roamer_1]

hat could explain the similar sized ice picks and mat found at the "2nd cave." They possibly had Mr. James in there to protect him from the elements while they did the work. Since he had supposedly said that the others had left to get help in his phone call, do you think the scenario had already played out?

If he was injured, he would have been tied in and relatively immobile.

If those picks are James' (which is likely), the fact they were both out indicates he was healthy at the time, and using two arms. I believe he was on belay, and something happened to sweep the line down the hill with enough force to hurt him if his hand/arm was caught in a coil.

If they were on a long line, belay can last quite a while, so it is not uncommon to shelter the position and pull out your ground pad to sit upon while one belay... -Bruce

[ican'tbelieveit]

Oh great, to understand your post, I am going to have to go learn a whole new vocabulary. Give me awhile.

[BonneBlue]

I have been reading your posts and find them interesting. Your scenerio would also fit with the dislocated shoulder and cut rope that was found?