Challenges faced by Utah search and rescue after recent accident [Video]

SPANISH FORK, Utah — A group of teenagers were climbing up rocks at a hiking spot in Utah County when a large boulder broke loose and struck a 16-year-old boy on Friday. The boy suffered a broken femur, according to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office.

Sgt. Spencer Cannon, with the UCSO, said the group was climbing rocks in Red Ledges, a popular trail on Diamond Fork when the incident occurred.

It’s unclear what caused the boulder to come free. A Utah Department of Public Safety helicopter was called out to hoist the boy out.

Cannon said it’s not uncommon for rescues in Red Ledges, but they don’t see instances often caused by falling debris in that area.

While the boy was located not too far from the entrance of the trail, the rescue posed several challenges for crews.

“The terrain was so steep and (the boy) was in pretty bad shape,” Cannon said. “Any slight movement at …