Kathmandu, Nepal – A British climber and his guide who reached the summit of Mount Everest are missing and presumed dead in the mountain’s treacherous “death zone.” This zone, located above 26,000 feet, is known for its low oxygen levels, which can result in impaired judgment, severe altitude sickness, and death. The summit of Mount Everest stands at 29,032 feet.

The British climber, Daniel Paterson, successfully reached the summit on May 21st, before going missing during his descent. His partner, Becks Woodhead, expressed sorrow on a crowdfunding page, stating that there has been no contact or sighting of him since. Paterson, 39, and his guide, Pastenji Sherpa, 23, were hit by falling ice as they descended when a cornice collapsed.

The two climbers were part of a group organized by 8K Expeditions. Despite extensive search efforts, the company confirmed that they were unable to recover the bodies of Paterson and Sherpa following the incident. Paterson, known for his uplifting positivity and strong determination, had previously summited other Nepalese mountains like Amadablam and Island Peak.

Woodhead described Paterson as an adventurer with an adventurous spirit and unwavering dedication to helping others. She mentioned that climbing Mount Everest had been a lifelong dream for Paterson, who was also raising money for the family of a CrossFit member who had passed away from cancer.

Their tragic disappearance adds to the list of fatalities on Mount Everest. Three people have died on the mountain this year, with 18 perishing last year, according to Nepalese officials. The challenges faced by climbers on Everest are compounded by overcrowding and changing weather conditions, as videos have shown long lines of climbers waiting to summit.

Paterson’s Instagram account documented his Everest journey, showcasing his passion for mountaineering and dedication to achieving his goals. His positive spirit and adventurous nature have left a lasting impact on those who knew him. As search and rescue efforts continue on the mountain, the risks and rewards of climbing Everest remain as unpredictable as ever.