IL Woman Dies After Being Struck By Falling Rock In New Mexico

YORKVILLE, IL – A 54-year-old Yorkville woman died in New Mexico this week after she was hit in the head by falling rocks at Bandelier National Monument and fell, authorities said.

New Mexico authorities have identified the woman as Brenda Holzer, who park officials said was climbing up to Alcove House, which is 140 feet above the floor of Frijoles Canyon. Park officials said Thursday that Holzer was on a ladder making her way to the monument when she was hit by the falling rock.

Holzer fell about 25 feet after being struck and fell from the second of four ladders that lead to Alcove House. The monument is also reachable by a series of ladders and stone stairs, park officials said. Authorities said Holzer died while first responders were lowering her back to the canyon floor to treat her.

A news release said Holzer was attended to by medical personnel, who lowered her back to the ground but were unable to resuscitate her. The release said first responders could find no pulse and that Holzer was taken to a local hospital.

The monument site remains closed while authorities continue to investigate the accident, park officials said.