We report with deep sorrow the passing of Kellam Conover, a distinguished appellate attorney with King & Spalding, following a tragic mountain climbing accident in New Zealand. Based in Washington, D.C., Conover, 44, was embarking on a climbing expedition to conquer the region's highest peak when the accident occurred.

Conover, a Stanford Law School graduate, and his climbing guide, Thomas Vialletet, were tethered together during their ascent when they tragically fell to their deaths. The specifics of what led to the fall remain unclear, as noted by Climbing Magazine. This incident has left both the legal and climbing communities in shock.

Mark Jensen, managing partner at King & Spalding’s D.C. office, conveyed his grief and respect for Conover in a heartfelt expression of loss. “Kellam made his mark here as a gifted lawyer, respected colleague, and wonderful friend with a bright future,” Jensen stated. He continued, "He will be sorely missed. We send our condolences to Kellam’s family and friends on their unfathomable loss."

Conover was not only a capable attorney but also an enthusiastic adventurer who sought to fulfill his passion for mountain climbing, a pursuit that unfortunately ended in tragedy.

Our thoughts are with the families of Kellam Conover and Thomas Vialletet during this profoundly difficult time. The legal community mourns a profound loss, remembering Conover as a brilliant lawyer and cherished friend. His passing is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of adventure sports, even for the most experienced climbers.

For more details on this story, you can read further here: [King & Spalding Appellate Attorney Dies While Climbing New Zealand's Tallest Mountain](https://www.law.com/americanlawyer/2025/12/01/king--spalding-appellate-attorney-dies-while-climbing-new-zealands-tallest-mountain/).