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Teen hurt in fall from Phoenix mountain dies

by The Associated Press
| August 12, 2014 8:00 PM

PHOENIX (AP) — A teenage boy who, along with an off-duty Phoenix firefighter, was critically injured while rappelling down Camelback Mountain has died.

Phoenix police say 15-year-old Trevor Crouse died Friday evening after being taken to the hospital in extremely critical condition.

Firefighter Gary Johnstone was also killed in the fall.

Authorities say the 50-year-old Johnstone, Crouse and another 15-year-old boy were about 200 feet up the Echo Canyon Trail around 7 a.m. when they fell approximately 30 feet.

The other boy suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

Authorities say it appears they were in the middle of a rappelling or rock climbing maneuver when the accident occurred.

Police are trying to determine what led to the fall but have ruled out foul play.

Johnstone was an engineer paramedic and 15-year veteran of the department.

Camelback Mountain, noted for its shape, is popular with hikers.