Kenyan hiker Cheruiyot Kirui’s attempt to conquer Mount Everest ended tragically after his body was found lifeless above 8,000 metres on the world’s tallest peak.
Kirui’s dead body was discovered in Everest’s perilous “death zone” on Thursday morning after he went missing on Wednesday, ending his courageous journey.
Confirming the tragic news, Everest Today, dedicated to Himalayan mountaineering, offered condolences to Kirui’s loved ones and acknowledged his passion for the sport.
“With profound sadness, we share the news of Kenyan mountaineer Cheruiyot Kirui’s passing on Mt Everest. His body was found a few meters below the summit point of Mt Everest,” the statement read.
“His indomitable will and passion for mountaineering will forever be an inspiration. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this time of sorrow,” Everest Today added.
As of Thursday morning, base camp officials reported that the whereabouts of Nawang, a Sherpa guide accompanying Mr Kirui in the “death zone”, remained uncertain.
Kirui’s expedition, organised by Seven Summit Treks involving hikers from various nations, ended in tragedy, similar to the fate of Romanian climber Gabriel Tavara, who perished in a similar attempt on Lhotse.
Before his ill-fated ascent, Kirui spoke of his determination to challenge himself without supplemental oxygen, despite the inherent risks.
“The challenge for me would be without supplemental oxygen; otherwise, I wouldn’t feel like I’ve achieved much. So I want to see how my body can cope in such altitude,” he said.
Equipped with medical precautions for high-altitude illnesses, Kirui set out on his mission to push the limits of human endurance.
His family, as well as Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), where he worked as a banker, are yet to comment on the incident.