Climbing accident at Ketchum Idaho indoor Climbing Wall

The Wood River Community YMCA in Ketchum, Idaho is investigating an accident that occurred on its climbing wall January 25, 2008, as reported by the Idaho Mountain Express and Guide in an article Accident at YMCA still Under Investigated. The injured climber Curtis Hoffenbach, 21 had reached the top of the wall when he fell to the floor. The YMCA has a climbing expert to investigate the accident.

It is not known yet how or why the accident happened. Mr. Hoffenbach’s injuries consisted of six cracked vertebrae, two of which were burst fractures. In order to stabilize them, the L8 through T12 were fused together and the L1 through L3 were anchored with titanium screws Mr. Hoffenbach is expected to be on his back for several months for recovery.

The YMCA requires all persons sign a release to be a member.

Image via Wikipedia