Overview
- Shelley Johannesen, 53, was caught in an avalanche while descending Mount Makalu shortly after reaching the summit.
- She was climbing with partner David Ashley and two Nepali guides near roughly 7,315 meters, a section reported around Camp III.
- Ashley said she died in his arms and confirmed the circumstances in a statement he shared on social media.
- Medics treated her on the mountain before her body was flown to a hospital in Kathmandu, according to local reporting cited by outlets.
- Ashley said he is arranging cremation in Nepal in line with her wishes and planning a U.S. memorial, as he seeks grief counseling after the loss.