I just don't understand why so many people go off and leave others in their group behind.
It might not have helped Tom H, but at least the search wouldn't have been necessary.
As with the other more or less other finger-pointing comments that folow the article: it is unfair/irresponsible to suggest any wrongdoing on the part of the hiking buddies without knowing any of the facts. I have hiked with the most responsible SAR members, and it was perfectly agreeable for us to break into pace groups -- or alone in my case -- when closing in on the summit. We are not talking about an inexperienced newbie "abandoned" on the trail.
My condolences to both the family AND the friends who mourn the loss of Tom.
