Hiker injured in Grand Canyon rock fall

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, AZ - Authorities say a hiker has been injured in a rock fall at the Grand Canyon.

According to the National Park Service, rangers responded to an area in the canyon known as the "Box" where a 19-year-old male hiker had sustained injuries.

The area is located in a steep canyon approximately 9 miles below the North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail.

Officials said a significant thunderstorm was passing over the area when the incident occurred.

The victim was taken to Phantom Ranch by others who were hiking with him.

Park Rangers responded and provided medical treatment.

Due to weather conditions a helicopter was not able to respond until Saturday morning to retrieve the patient.

He was taken in critical condition to the Flagstaff Medical Center by helicopter around 6 a.m.

An investigation into the incident is underway by the National Park Service.

Friday night's storm also caused damage to a section of the River Trail, located on the south side of the river, across from Phantom Ranch, officials said.

The trail is still open to hikers but mule trips have been diverted to the South Kaibab Trail.

The weather forecast calls for additional thunderstorms in the Grand Canyon area over the next several days.

Officials advise hikers to be especially cautious during storm activity.

Visit the park's website for additional information on weather and hiking during the monsoon season. Or call the park's Backcountry Information Center at 928-638-7585.