CONTACT:
Sgt. Alex Lopashanski
603-744-5470
603-271-3361
August 14, 2025
Bartlett, NH – On Wednesday, August 13 shortly after 7:00 p.m., New Hampshire Fish and Game was notified that a climber had fallen on Double V on the Barber Wall at Cathedral Ledge and was injured. The hiker was 43-year-old Simon Montgomery of Greece. Montgomery fell 20–25 feet and hit a ledge below the top of the cliff. His climbing partner was able to place a call to 911 for assistance.
Along with Conservation Officers, members of Bartlett/Jackson Ambulance, the Bartlett Police Department, Mountain Rescue Service, the US Forest Service, and a SOLO student responded. Several members of the rescue team were able to walk out the ledge to reach Montgomery and treat his injuries. The rest of the team rigged a haul system. He was placed in a litter and raised to the top of the cliff. He was then carried to the parking area at the top of Cathedral Ledge Road. He reached the road shortly after 10:00 p.m. and was driven from the scene by Bartlett/Jackson Ambulance. He was transferred to the Central Maine Life Flight Helicopter, which took him to Maine Medical Hospital in Portland for treatment.
The Mountain Rescue Service is a highly skilled volunteer search and rescue organization whose members work hard to maintain the skills and equipment necessary to carry out technical rescues across the state. Anyone can donate to MRS through the New Hampshire Outdoor Council at www.nhoutdoorcouncil.org. Donations are fully tax deductible. Outdoor enthusiasts are also encouraged to purchase a Hike Safe card at http://www.wildnh.com/safe. The card helps support Fish and Game search and rescue activities. For safe hiking tips and a list of essential gear, visit hikesafe.com.