Let me assure you it was not the first ascensionist that cut the tree down. I would love to find out who it was so I can slap them up side their stupid head a few times. The tree really wasn't that big of a problem. The four other persons that I have seen lead this route didn't think the tree was a problem either. If I'd thought someone would cut down the tree I wouldn't have put the route up.
That tree was dead from the fire anyway. I would bet that someone with a vested interest in turning the cliff into an outside gym did it so they would have a place to sit! Don't think it is illegal to cut down dead trees for firewood or benches.