Overview

• A belay miscommunication during a routine test fall at Kletterzentrum Simbach am Inn led to the climber’s unexpected descent.
• The 39-year-old fell roughly 4.5 meters and remains hospitalized with a lumbar spine injury.
• Her 36-year-old climbing partner suffered a rope burn on the left hand while attempting to arrest the fall.
• Officials noted that the climber’s regulation harness and ten-centimeter-thick protective floor prevented more serious injuries.
• Local police have launched a review of safety and communication procedures at the climbing center.