Fallen Climber in Serious Condition

A Glendale man plunged 45 feet from a popular rock-climbing formation in Chatsworth on Monday, nearly severing his foot, authorities said.

The spectacular 2 p.m. fall from Stoney Point, on Topanga Canyon Boulevard near the Simi Valley Freeway, was witnessed by several climbers taking advantage of the post-Christmas day off, Los Angeles Fire Department officials said.

“According to witnesses, he fell nearly 45 feet and landed on his feet,” said fire spokesman Brian Humphrey.

The victim, who was airlifted to Northridge Hospital Medical Center, sustained a fractured right ankle and a possible collapsed lung, said Humphrey. The climber’s identity was withheld by officials.

The rough terrain and severity of the injuries prompted firefighters to airlift the man to the hospital trauma unit, where he was reported in serious condition before undergoing surgery Monday afternoon, Humphrey said.

Paramedics at the scene saw no evidence that the victim was using ropes or other safety tackle during the climb, said Humphrey. At least two people saw the fall.

The rock formation, jutting up from the east side of Topanga Canyon Boulevard near Santa Susana Pass Road, is frequented by local climbers and hikers and has been the scene of several accidents, most of them minor.

“It’s rather common for us to go out there,” said Humphrey. “We’re often called out there to rescue climbers and recreational hikers.”