Smith Rock climber from New Zealand injured in 15-foot fall

A climber from New Zealand fell 12 to 15 feet at Smith Rock State Park and injured his ankle Thursday afternoon, prompting a search and rescue effort, officials said.

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue received a request around 2:30 p.m. to help the injured climber at the Asterisk Pass area, identified as Peter Kettering, 61, of Hokitika, New Zealand, said Sgt. Ronny Dozer, SAR operations manager.

Two SAR teams made up of nine volunteers were sent to the scene, along with a wheeled litter. Redmond Fire and Rescue crews also responded with medics, who reached the patient with help from park rangers, said Battalion Chief Jake Campbell.

Kettering was stabilized and placed in the wheeled litter, then taken back to the main trailhead. Kettering was taken to St. Charles Redmond by private vehicle for evaluation, officials said.