Flagstaff Photographer John Burcham Faces Long Recovery After Climbing Incident
In a remote Sedona canyon, a rock-climbing endeavor turned perilous for veteran photographer John Burcham. The experienced climber was injured while exploring a new route in the Long Canyon-Deadman’s Pass area on December 10.
Sedona Fire Department reports that during the climb, Burcham was caught in a rockfall, resulting in a 40-foot descent. According to a GoFundMe page set up by his family, “the sub-pillar within the chimney collapsed violently, sending John careening down in an uncontrollable fall and causing all of his protection to rip out. His fall was long and violent… On impact, the pillar of rock exploded around and onto him. Tragically, a coffee-table-sized boulder landed directly on the upper part of his body, breaking nearly every bone in his face.” His climbing partners, Seth Dyer and Dave Spies, promptly provided critical aid, which was essential to his survival.
A collaborative rescue effort was initiated by the Department of Public Safety Air Ranger from Phoenix, joined by Guardian Air and Yavapai County deputies. Personnel reached the scene by helicopter, navigating challenging terrain as described by Sedona Fire. Burcham was airlifted to Flagstaff Medical Center after a 4.5-hour operation.
The GoFundMe page further details Burcham’s injuries, noting a traumatic brain injury and significant facial injuries affecting his vision. Despite these severe injuries, updates indicate he has moved from the intensive care unit to a rehabilitation hospital, showing signs of progress.
A respected figure in northern Arizona’s climbing community and an accomplished photographer, Burcham’s work has been featured in prominent publications like National Geographic, The New York Times, and Arizona Highways. His recovery journey continues to inspire and rally support from the community he has long been a part of.
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