No injured cavers recorded.
On 9 August two boys, Craig Spencer (20) and Richard Nelson (14) were lost in Guess Creek Cave for almost 12 hours, although never more than 1000 feet from the entrance. As it was known what cave they had gone to, they were finally found by two local youths just prior to the arrival of members of Huntsville Grotto Rescue Team. The younger boy was badly frightened, but they were not injured.
Source: William Varnedoe
Analysis: (Varnedoe) They had forgotten where to climb up from the stream passage to the entrance room. The cause of the incident was lack of experience and knowledge of cave exploring techniques, and insufficient "looking back". Their one light, a 6-volt "radar light", was inadequate, but was still functioning.
All parties were informed of the Huntsville Grotto meeting times and place and invited to attend, and to pass the word so that others will learn proper methods before entering caves.
This record was last updated on 27th Apr 2024 at 23:11 UTC.