BOISE, Idaho — A Special Tactics Airman is dead after he fell about forty feet down a cliff near the intersection of Warm Springs Avenue and Highway 21 during a training incident.
The Ada County Coroner says U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Peter Kraines of North Carolina was climbing with three of his friends near the Diversion Dam/ Black Cliffs Rock Climbing area when he fell. First responders say they attempted life saving measures but he succumbed to his injuries.
Kraines was performing a mountain rescue technique when he fell. Officials say all of the men had safety equipment, but Kraines' equipment failed.
Kraines was a military static-line jumper, free fall jumper, an Air Force combat scuba diver and certified as an emergency medical technician.
“This is a tragic loss to the Special Tactics community,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Matthew Allen, commander of the 24th SOW. “We are grateful for the support from our community and our [Air Force Special Operations Command] teammates. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and teammates at this time.”
The incident is still under investigation.
Initial info on climbing accident was there was some kind of equipment issue. Other climbers called 911. Paramedics and deputies arrived moments later, started first aid, CPR. Paramedics eventually declared the man deceased.
— Ada County Sheriff (@AdaCoSheriff) October 8, 2019
