FALL ON ROCK, PROTECTION PULLED OUT–INADEQUATE PROTECTION

Idaho, City of Rocks National Reserve, Buzzard's Perch

On September 26 at 5:45 p.m., Adam Baxter (24) fell while attempting to lead “Terror of Tiny Town,” a 5.11 climb on the Buzzard’s Perch in City of Rocks National Reserve. Baxter was about 30 feet off the ground and had placed two cams when he fell. Both devices failed to hold, so Baxter fell into the boulders at the base.

His companions sent for help while assessing Baxter’s injuries, which included an abrasion to his forehead, a temporary loss of consciousness, pain in his right hip, and pain in his lumbar spine.

Climbing Ranger Brad Shilling arrived on scene at Parking Lot Rock parking lot to find the patient sitting up talking to his companions, one of whom is a medical intern. The patient refused care, preferring to go by private vehicle to the Emergency Department in Burley. Shilling contacted Cassia Dispatch to advise them of the patient’s refusal of either treatment or helicopter transport. The patient and his companions agreed to allow Life Run to proceed in the event that a rendezvous could be possible en route. The patient was clear of the Reserve by about 6:30 p.m.

Note that in the event, the patient did make a rendezvous with the ambulance, and was transported by them to the hospital in Burley.