Fort Smith man survives fall from cliff

— Newton County authorities say a 19-year-old Fort Smith man was seriously injured but survived an estimated 100-foot fall from a cliff.

Sheriff Keith Slape told the Harrison Daily Times that Austin Elders fell from what’s known as Hawksbill Crag on Whitaker Point about 4 a.m. Saturday while he and a friend were stargazing.

Slape said the two were camping in the area and the friend was finally able to get cell service and call for help about 5 a.m.

Slape said Elders fell through small trees and branches, and that helped break the fall somewhat.

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