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FatalityOutcome: FatalHypothermia

Fatality — Mt. Lafayette / Little Haystack Mountain, Feb 11, 2008

·Mount Lafayette·Falling Waters Trail / Franconia Ridge Trail

Laurence Fredrickson, age 55, of South Sutton, NH (deceased); James Osborne, age 36, of Manchester, NH (critical condition, severe hypothermia and frostbite) · party of 2

Two hikers attempting a ~9-mile winter traverse from Falling Waters Trail to Mt. Lafayette via Franconia Ridge Trail were reported missing on February 11, 2008, when they failed to show up for work. They were found near the summit of Little Haystack Mountain in sub-zero temperatures and high winds, inadequately equipped for winter conditions and without snowshoes; Fredrickson was pronounced dead at Littleton Hospital and Osborne was airlifted in critical condition with severe hypothermia and frostbite.

What we can learn

Col. Jeffrey Gray stated: 'This tragic situation, once again, underscores the importance of proper planning and the need for appropriate equipment when winter hiking. Individuals must carefully evaluate and acknowledge their physical limitations and level of experience. Winter hikers should not hesitate to turn back or postpone outings when severe weather is predicted or encountered.'

Contributing factors

Inadequate clothingNovice in winter terrainInadequate tractionIgnored forecast
Before you head out: check the forecast, carry the Ten Essentials, leave your plans with someone, and be willing to turn back. See current conditions for Mount Lafayette →

Other recorded incidents on Mount Lafayette

Part of the WMNF Hiker Incident Database. Every entry cites a primary or near-primary source; details are refined as the record is reviewed.