Hiker Hospitalized After Falling Off Mountain, In Critical Condition

An 18 year-old hiker is fighting for his life in the hospital after falling while hiking in McKelligan Canyon.

According to the El Paso Fire Department, at 3:17 p.m. Sunday afternoon they were dispatched to McKelligan Canyon about a climber who had fallen while hiking. KVIA reported the 18 year-old man slipped and fell about 25 feet off the side of the mountain while hiking. A fellow climber called 911 and the fire department was able to get on scene by 3:27 p.m and began medical treatment by 3:48 p.m. The Combined Search and Rescue team helped escort two underage climbers down the mountain. The 11 year-old and 12 year-old were with the patient went he fell. The injured man was then brought down the mountain in a basket and was transported to a local hospital at 5:18 p.m. He was admitted with Level 1 trauma injuries, which are life threatening.

After releasing this information, the El Paso Fire Department and Texas Parks and Wildlife gave safety recommendations for people planning to hike or climb in our area:

• Plan before you go and make sure you know the rules. Also know your limits and don't overexert yourself hiking.
• Stay on the marked trails to avoid potential injuries, getting lost or encountering dangerous desert wildlife
• Bring a cell phone for emergencies but also bring an alternative means to signal in times of distress like a whistle, mirror or flashlight. It makes it easier for rescuers to find you.

For more information on how you can stay safe while enjoying the outdoors, please see the El Paso Fire Department's website.