Sarah Mallory Geis Killed in Avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak
Sarah Mallory Geis, a 39-year-old climber from San Antonio, Texas, was killed in a fast-moving avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak. The 12th-highest mountain in the world, Broad Peak was struck by an avalanche on Thursday, engulfing a 10-person expedition led by renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja. Geis was part of the team, which included five Nepalese climbers, Pakistani guide Sohail Sakhi, Omani climber Nathira Al-Harthy, a Chinese climber identified as Mr. Wang, and another foreign climber. Rescuers have recovered four bodies so far, including Geis. The team lost contact with base camp after the avalanche struck. Search and rescue operations continue despite adverse weather and hampered helicopter flights. Nirmal Purja, who famously climbed all 14 of the world's 8,000-meter peaks in a record time, remains among the missing. While some climbers have been spotted via drone, it is unclear if any are still alive. The expedition was Geis's first attempt at an 8,000-meter peak, and she closed her Pilates studio to pursue the adventure.