Arizona, August 15: A 13-year-old boy miraculously survived a nearly 100-foot plunge into the Grand Canyon. Wyatt Kauffman's fall occurred at the Bright Angel Point Trail, a renowned vantage point on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. According to multiple reports, the incident, one of the latest in a series of extreme falls at national parks this summer, left the teenager with many injuries, including nine broken vertebrae, a ruptured spleen, a collapsed lung, a concussion, a broken hand, and a dislocated finger.

According to reports, Wyatt had been moving aside for other visitors to take photographs when he lost his footing and began to fall. Gripping a rock with only one hand, his desperate efforts proved futile, leading to his tumble. The National Park Service's search and rescue team promptly responded to the emergency call, determining that a helicopter rescue was not feasible due to the treacherous terrain. Instead, they executed a rope rescue, hauling Wyatt to safety after a two-hour operation that involved nearly 40 emergency personnel. Xylazine Crisis in Philadelphia: Flesh Destroying Drug Grips US City, Viral Videos Show People Acting Like ‘Zombies’.

Bright Angel Point, celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and stunning sunsets, is a popular destination for hikers and photographers alike. However, its exposed and narrow trails, coupled with surprisingly steep sections, pose inherent risks. The Park Service issues advisories for visitors to remain on designated paths and maintain a minimum distance of six feet from the rim's edge. While Wyatt's survival is nothing short of miraculous, his ordeal echoes a series of tragic falls across US national parks this summer.  Mass Looting at US Mall Videos: Police Investigating Flash Mob Robbery After Dozens of Burglars Ransack Westfield Topanga Mall in California.

The incidents have highlighted the need for heightened safety awareness and precautions among park visitors. Wyatt's story, while distressing, also serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the first responders who played a pivotal role in his rescue. Wyatt's father, Brian Kauffman, expressed his gratitude for their efforts, emphasising the profound relief of bringing his son home safely.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 15, 2023 07:37 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).