RAF officer killed in mountain accident and unable to call for help as he had no radio

An RAF officer who died in a mountain accident was unable to call for help because he did not have a radio, a military investigation has found.

Wing Commander Gordon Henderson, 40, gave it to colleagues who descended after developing the disease at high altitude.

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It is believed that it is also the Afghan veteran into Broad Peak hours later at 26,000 feet Pakistan in July 2022.

The engineer, van Dunfermlinewas on his way to base camp when he fell, according to a witness from another expedition.

His body was never found.

An investigation found that fatigue and high altitude likely contributed to the father-of-two’s death.

Mountain guide Francois Cazzanelli was just meters away from Wg Cdr Henderson when he fell.

The guide said at the time: “He lost his balance and was turned forward. He slipped for a moment and then fell head first.

“He disappeared without even screaming. I was speechless, with my feet on the ground.”

Mr Cazzanelli climbed down the mountain to try to find the officer but only came across pieces of his clothing and equipment.

When he arrived at the expedition’s base camp, he brought colleagues from Wg Cdr. Henderson informed of the accident.

The guide added: “They showed me a photo to check if the man I saw falling was really him. It was Gordon.’

A MoD spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with the family, friends and colleagues of Wg Cdr. Gordon Henderson. The Ministry of Defense welcomes the comprehensive investigation report and is working to implement the agreed recommendations as quickly as possible.”