Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma

Man dies in attempt to save woman in 'horrific' ziplining incident

Kim Harris

Managing Editor

A 34-year-old man working a zipline receiving platform in north San Diego County was fatally injured Saturday, Oct. 30, while trying to save a woman who was attempting to hook up on the platform, authorities said.

Joaquin Romero of Banning died of multiple blunt force trauma injuries Monday, Nov. 1, after he fell from a receiving platform of a zipline while trying to help the rider, according to the San Diego County Medical Examiner.

Romero, who worked at the La Jolla Indian Campground, had been assigned to work the receiving platform at the campground's La Jolla Zip Zoom outdoor attraction at 22000 Highway 76 in Pauma Valley when he fell trying to assist someone who had just completed the ride. According to numerous published reports, the rider began to slide out on the line and Romero grabbed onto her harness in an attempt to stop her.

Both Romero and the rider slid out on the line roughly 100 feet above the ground, and Romero made what many are calling a heroic decision, dropping off the line to ensure the rider's safety.

Romero suffered multiple blunt force injuries, according to a new release issued by the San Diego County Medical Examiner's office. He was transported to the Sharp Memorial Hospital Emergency Department via helicopter, where he was given a poor prognosis and his family made the decision to place him on comfort care measures which were administered until he died from his injuries, the news release said.

The La Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians issued a statement on the accident saying they were "saddened and heart-broken."

"The tribe, tribal officials, employees and tribal members extend our sincere condolences to our employee and his family for their loss," according to the statement. "Like any employer, we pride ourselves on having a safe working environment and a safe and enjoyable experience for our customers. Given the circumstances of the accident, the Tribe is conducting an in-depth and comprehensive investigation, in coordination and cooperation with federal and state authorities."

The tribe said that there would be no further comments until the investigation into the incident was completed.

"We ask that you join us in keeping our employee and his family in our prayers," according to the statement.

 

Reader Comments(0)