NewsWFLA News TampaJuly 31, 2026United States
Hiker survives impalement accident on Montana mountain
A hiker named David Cifaldi was injured after falling onto his own trekking pole while hiking on Montana's Froze-to-Death Plateau. He was able to hike out of the mountains to seek medical assistance.
Read the full story at WFLA News TampaWhy It Matters
This incident highlights the physical risks associated with high-altitude hiking in remote areas of Montana.
Key Facts
- David Cifaldi was hiking with two companions when the accident occurred.
- The incident took place on the Froze-to-Death Plateau near the summit of Montana's highest peak.
- Cifaldi fell and was impaled by his own trekking pole.
- Cifaldi successfully hiked out of the mountain area to obtain help.
Who's Mentioned
locationGranite Peak“Montana's tallest mountain where the incident occurred.”organizationStillwater County Search and Rescue“The local rescue agency that monitored the hikers' progress.”locationFroze-to-Death Plateau“The specific geographic location in Montana where the accident occurred.”organizationSt. Vincent Regional Hospital“The hospital where Cifaldi works and received treatment.”personJesse Ross“Cifaldi's hiking companion who provided support and transportation.”personTy Williams“Stillwater County Search and Rescue team commander who monitored the situation.”personDavid Cifaldi“The hiker who was impaled and performed his own self-rescue.”