Seattle Climber Dies After Rappelling Fall in Methow Valley

MAZAMA, Wash. (AP) — Authorities say an experienced Seattle climber died after falling more than 100 feet while climbing in northern Washington.

The Okanogan County Sheriff's Office said in a news release that 26-year-old Ryan Kautz was rappelling with two other experienced climbers Tuesday on Goat Wall near the town of Mazama when the fall occurred.

The sheriff's office says it appears Kautz fell when a knot holding two ropes came undone. The climbers told deputies they were stuck without a rope and could only call to Kautz to stay in place.

About 90 minutes later, other climbers came upon them. They were provided ropes to come down and call authorities.

Sheriff's deputies and a U.S. Navy search and rescue crew located Kautz, who was found dead.

Authorities are investigating.