Emily Chan
Mallory’s remains were found by the U.S. rock climber Conrad Anker less than 2,000 feet from the summit.
There was a rope tied around the body’s waist. His body also showed injuries that suggested the pair had fallen while he and Irvine were connected.
Chin and his team searched the area near where Mallory’s remains were found and managed to locate the boot protruding from the half-melted ice.
“This was a monumental and emotional moment for us and our entire team on the ground, and we just hope this can finally bring peace of mind to his relatives and the climbing world at large,” said Chin.
Irvine’s remains were sent to the China Tibet Mountaineering Association, which authorizes climbers on Everest’s north side.
The find was also reported to the organizer of Irvine and Mallory’s expedition, the Royal Geographical Society, as well as to Julie Summers, the great-niece of Irvine.
Members of the Irvine family reportedly volunteered to share DNA samples to confirm the identity of the remains.
Meanwhile, Chin and his team will continue searching for more artifacts, namely Irvine’s camera.
