Vishnu Irigireddy Among Three Killed In Mountaineering Accident

India-West News Desk

BELLEVUE, WA – Vishnu Irigireddy, a respected engineering executive from Renton, was one of three climbers who died on May 10, following a tragic fall in Washington’s North Cascades. The climbers were rappelling down a steep rock face in Okanogan County when their anchor reportedly failed, sending them plunging nearly 400 feet.

Irigireddy, 48, was climbing along with Alex Martynenko, 36, of Bellevue, and Tim Nguyen, 63, also of Renton. All three were killed in the fall. A fourth member of the climbing party, Anton Tselykh, 38, of Seattle, survived. After the incident, Tselykh made a grueling overnight trek through snow-covered, rugged terrain to reach his vehicle and drive to the nearest pay phone to call for help. Emergency crews later arrived by helicopter and located the bodies of the three deceased climbers.

Investigators believe the incident was caused by a catastrophic anchor failure during the descent, though details are still being reviewed.

Irigireddy, who served as Vice President of Engineering at Fluke Corporation, was described by colleagues as an “extraordinary leader” whose presence had a significant impact across the company. He had built a reputation not only for his technical expertise, but also for his warmth, collaborative nature, and mentorship.

Beyond his professional life, Irigireddy was known among friends and family for his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors. An avid mountaineer, he frequently sought out remote trails and challenging summits across the Pacific Northwest. Those who knew him described a man who balanced drive and ambition with deep compassion—someone who made others feel seen, heard, and supported.

The news of his death has reverberated throughout the region’s tight-knit climbing and tech communities. Friends and colleagues have recalled his infectious energy, his loyalty, and the way he consistently went out of his way to help others—whether on the trail, in the office, or in his neighborhood.

Cremation services for Irigireddy were held on May 15.