YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK -- A renowned rock climber and author who made a name for himself scaling peaks around the world was killed when he fell 500 feet while attempting a first ascent near Bridalveil Fall, a park spokeswoman said Tuesday.

Todd Skinner and his party had completed a new route up what is known as "Leaning Tower" and was rappelling when he fell to his death Monday, said Adrienne Freeman.

It was not immediately clear why Skinner, who claimed to have set climbing records in 26 countries, fell.

The cause of his death was being investigated by the Mariposa County coroner's office.