The other three backpackers were suffering from mild hypothermia.
The Male was dressed in blue jeans and other cotton, the two
female survivors in synthetics.

The deceased woman's pack had a wet tent just stuffed in the
top as if some attempt had been made to set it up, but was
repacked hastily.

All hikers were reported new to the area and activity, had been
on the trail several days and knew bad weather was expected.
They did not know each other before the trip and apparently
some were irritated at the others for not having the right gear.