Christopher Ryan Brewer, of Pensacola, Florida, who was taking part in the 32nd annual Bridge Day celebration in Fayetteville, West Virginia, was airlifted to Charleston Area Medical Center in critical condition after jumping from the top of New River Gorge Bridge. The 27-year-old sustained a pelvic fracture, lung injuries and a spine injury. The Bridge Day event drew more than 100,000 visitors, according to event organizers, and more than 400 BASE (Bridge, Antenna, Span, Earth) jumpers. The event is the only time the extreme sporting enthusiasts can legally jump from the steel arch span bridge, with only registered and closely supervised participants allowed to jump.
After he was recovered from the water, he was stabilized by medical personnel stationed at the landing zone beneath the bridge, and loaded for transport by helicopter via HealthNet Aeromedical Services within 15 minutes of the incident. The incident is under investigation by the National Park Service.
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