Dan Paterson, a 40-year-old British national, and his 23-year-old Nepalese guide, Pastenji Sherpa, are missing after reaching the summit of Mount Everest early on Tuesday, 21 May. Concerns for their safety have escalated amid increasing overcrowding and hazardous conditions on the mountain.
According to Dan's partner, Becks Woodhead, the pair successfully summited Everest around 5am but have not been heard from since. In response, Becks has initiated an online crowdfunding campaign to raise £150,000 for a search and rescue operation, which has already amassed £105,000.
The disappearance occurred shortly after a significant snow and ice landslide on the mountain, which has been compounded by the dangers posed by overcrowding. Recent social media footage shows large numbers of climbers bottlenecked at the Hillary Step, an area known for its perilous conditions.
The Nepal Mountaineering Association and seasoned mountaineers have long voiced concerns over the risks of overcrowding, particularly in Everest's "death zone," where the thin air and extreme cold can be fatal within hours.
The crowdfunding page highlights Dan's life as a beloved family man, partner, and Crossfit gym co-owner, with a passion for Leeds United. His partner expressed hope to bring him home safely, particularly with the upcoming football play-off final.
Tragically, the situation on Everest remains dire, with recent years seeing some of the highest fatality rates in the mountain's history, a trend attributed to both overcrowding and the effects of climate change.