NBC News

Soldier Survives 70-Foot Fall Into Active Volcano in Hawaii

He was found on a narrow ledge on a 300-foot cliff and airlifted to a hospital

A soldier who tried to get a closer look at an active volcano in Hawaii fell 70 feet down a 300-foot cliff on Wednesday but survived, NBC News reported.

The 32-year-old lost his footing after climbing over a railing at the edge of the Kilauea caldera at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, according to a statement from the National Park Services.

But more than two hours later, he was found on a narrow ledge about 70 feet down. The soldier was seriously injured and airlifted to a hospital in Hilo.

"Crossing safety barriers and entering closed areas can result in serious injuries and death," Chief Ranger John Broward said in a statement.

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