23‑Year‑Old Climber Dies Falling from El Capitan
Balin Miller, a 23‑year‑old climber known to some observers as the 'orange tent guy,' fell to his death at Yosemite National Park after completing a challenging solo ascent of El Capitan and then rappelling to retrieve stuck haul bags; family members and witnesses say he slid off the end of a rope that was too short. The death was livestreamed by onlookers and occurred while some park staff were on furlough amid a partial government shutdown, leaving parks open but with limited operations.
Public Safety
Environment
🔍 Key Facts
- Victim: Balin Miller, age 23, identified by family; mother Jeanine Moorman interviewed.
- Location: El Capitan, Yosemite National Park; fall occurred while rappelling to recover stuck haul bags.
- Timing and circumstance: reported Oct. 3, 2025; witnesses and a photographer (Tom Evans) say the rope was too short and he slid off the end; the climb had been livestreamed and he was known for an orange tent he used on the ascent.