Climber John Bachar killed near Mammoth Lakes

Free solo climber John Bachar was killed when he fell from a rock near Mammoth Lakes noon Sunday.

According to the Mono County Sheriff's Office, Bachar, 51, fell from Dike Wall, a popular climbing area near Mammoth Lakes.

Rescue personnel responded to the fall and transported Bachar to Mammoth Hospital, where he died.

"Mr. Bachar is a well-known, world-class climber who resides in Mammoth Lakes," Sgt. Jeff Beard said.

Beard said no one witnessed Bachar's fall, but that several climbers nearby heard the fall and were able to reach the climber in less than a minute.

Mono County paramedics, Mammoth Lakes firefighters and members of the Mono County Search & Rescue Team responded to the accident.

Bachar had to be transported by boat across Lake George to an ambulance.