Story perspectives
Tragic New Year's: Climber Falls, Hiker Killed by Mountain Lion
1/5/2026
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Story summary
- A climber died after falling from Citadel Peak in Colorado on New Year's Day, while with a 29-year-old woman.
- Rescue efforts were slowed by high winds, delaying helicopter access until a Colorado National Guard Black Hawk joined.
- By 8 p.m., rescuers recovered the man’s body and safely evacuated the woman.
- Nearby, a separate hiker died from a suspected mountain lion attack, prompting animal investigations.
