Chelan County Sheriff(CCSD) - Sheriff Mike Harum reports August 7, 2008 at 11:30 AM RiverCom communications center dispatched Deputies to a climbing accident in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.  The reporting party indicated he was summoned to go for help as a climber that had fallen off of Dragonstail Peak at 7:30 AM. The reporting party had to hike for three hours before getting cell coverage to call.

Lt. Maria Agnew immediately activated the Sheriffs helicopter and the Search and Rescue team to conduct the search for the victim.  At 1:20 PM the victim was located at the base of Dragonstail peak, deceased.   Andrea M. Basque, 45 years old of Portland, OR suffered fatal injuries when she fell while climbing the peak. Basque’s climbing partner, Jason Halsey, 32 years ofPortland, OR stated she slipped on the rocky terrain, falling several hundred feet to her death.

The King County Sheriffs Search and Rescue winch capable helicopter was called to assist in the removal of the deceased.  Coroner Wayne Harris is continuing the investigation and making family notifications.