Fatality Above Chasm Lake In Rocky Mountain National Park

Date: August 23, 2017
Contact: Kyle Patterson, Public Affairs Officer, 970-586-1363
Contact: General Park Information, [phone]

This morning, August 23, park rangers were notified via cell phone that a 73 year old male had taken a tumbling fall while descending Mount Lady Washington in Rocky Mountain National Park above Chasm Lake. Bystanders who witnessed the fall aided the man by performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Rangers were nearby in the Chasm Shelter area and reached the man in 15 minutes. Rangers also performed CPR. He was pronounced dead at the scene. 
 
The man has been identified as Ken Teselle of Estes Park. Ken was a park volunteer and was off duty when the incident occurred. Because of the location and poor weather conditions, recovery efforts will begin tomorrow. Rangers will stay in the area tonight.