Mountain hiker meets tragic demise following 700ft plunge; onlooker recounts climber's final minutes.
In a tragic turn of events, a hiking accident claimed the life of a 49-year-old hiker, David Mull, a senior attorney for Salt Lake City, on July 20, 2025, in Bell's Canyon, Utah. The incident occurred near Pfeifferhorn in the Lone Peak Wilderness, specifically at around 8:45 a.m. local time.
According to reports, the hiker fell approximately 700 feet, likely due to a rockslide triggered by the unstable terrain caused by the previous night's rain[1][2][3]. A witness, Heather Hayes, stated that she saw the hiker slip on a loose rock, which set off a cascade of falling rocks[3].
A doctor who was hiking in the area discovered the injured hiker and attempted to revive him, but unfortunately, the hiker was pronounced dead at the scene[1][2]. Heather and her husband, along with a student nurse, tried to help the fallen hiker and administered CPR. However, the hiker's condition was fatal[4].
The incident was reported to the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office, and rescue teams responded promptly. Despite their efforts, no other hikers were found injured[1][2]. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of hiking in areas with unstable terrain, especially after precipitation[2].
The rescue operation was delayed by two hours due to the arrival of a helicopter to help the injured hiker[4]. Heather Hayes, the witness, had to scream at the helpers to move out of the way due to another rockslide that occurred while CPR was being administered[5].
Investigations are ongoing to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the accident. The incident underscores the importance of being cautious and aware of the risks involved in mountain hiking, especially in areas with unstable terrain.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased hiker during this difficult time.
[1] Salt Lake County Sheriff's Office Report [2] Heather Hayes' Statement [3] Witness Accounts [4] Rescue Team Report [5] Heather Hayes' Interview with Local News Channel
- The shocking news of the hiking accident in Bell's Canyon on July 20, 2025, has been covered extensively in general-news outlets.
- The Salt Lake City health-and-wellness community expressed their condolences after the tragic death of senior attorney David Mull, who died in a hiking accident.
- Mental-health professionals have urged hikers to be aware of potential dangers, especially when hiking in unstable terrain, following the accident that claimed David Mull's life.
- In addition to the hiking accident, recent events have seen a rise in crime-and-justice incidents in Utah, according to local news reports.
