California Climber Recounts Harrowing 500-Foot Slide Down Mount Shasta
Zubayir Kazi, 24, survived the fall and an overnight crawl to safety after losing supplies and sustaining severe injuries.
A California climber has described the terrifying experience of surviving a roughly 500-foot slide down Mount Shasta, an ordeal that left him with severe injuries and stranded overnight.
Zubayir Kazi, 24, of San Jose, had reached the summit of Mount Shasta on September 10 during his first attempt to climb the icy peak. On his descent, he lost control while attempting to glissade, a method of sliding down snow and ice, in the Avalanche Gulch area.
"Everything I had with me just goes out of my hand and I find myself flying down the mountain," Kazi told NBC Bay Area. He lost all his essential supplies, including food, water, his cellphone, and a light source.
Injured and without the means to call for help, Kazi's primary focus became survival. "My mentality became very one dimensional. I don’t know what’s the optimal thing to do, but I just know that I have to go lower because if I stay here and fall asleep, I’m going to die," he recounted.
His injuries, including significant lacerations and foot damage, caused swelling that forced him to remove his boots. He then crawled through the night until he reached Horse Camp Cabin. His friends had reported him missing after losing contact, initiating a multi-agency search.
The following day, a hiker discovered Kazi inside the cabin and provided him with aid before rescuers arrived. Upon seeing the extent of his injuries, Kazi realized the severity of his condition. "When the officers came in, it was the first time I really realized how badly I was injured. They said 'You have no skin behind your leg,'" he said.
Doctors later informed Kazi that he had suffered serious internal complications and significant skin and nerve damage, and that he could have died within hours.
The U.S. Forest Service, while commending Kazi for knowing his route and informing friends of his plans, advised climbers to carry backup electronics, ensure sufficient daylight, and be prepared for self-rescue. Kazi himself emphasized the importance of thorough preparation and avoiding climbing alone.