Climber Fights for Life After Red Rock Accident, Friends Launch GoFundMe

25-year-old Will Campbell was airlifted to the hospital after a climbing fall at Red Rock Canyon.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 12:51am

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A 25-year-old climber from New Zealand, Will Campbell, is fighting for his life in the hospital after a climbing accident at Red Rock Canyon in Las Vegas over the weekend. Campbell's friends have started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover his medical expenses, as his travel insurance only covers so much.

Why it matters

Climbing accidents at popular outdoor recreation areas like Red Rock Canyon are not uncommon, and can result in serious injuries that require extensive medical care and financial support from the community. This story highlights the risks inherent in extreme sports and the importance of having adequate insurance coverage when traveling.

The details

On Saturday, Las Vegas Metro Search and Rescue responded to a call about a fallen climber at Red Rock Canyon. The climber, identified as Will Campbell, had hit his head and gone into a seizure before being airlifted to University Medical Center. Campbell, an avid climber, was visiting Las Vegas from New Zealand as part of an annual spring break trip with friends.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday at Red Rock Canyon.
  • Campbell was airlifted to the hospital following the accident.

The players

Will Campbell

A 25-year-old climber from New Zealand who was visiting Las Vegas and was involved in a serious climbing accident at Red Rock Canyon.

Thomas Doell

One of Campbell's friends who started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover his medical expenses.

Las Vegas Metro Search and Rescue

The emergency response team that was called to assist Campbell after his climbing accident.

University Medical Center

The hospital where Campbell was airlifted and is currently receiving treatment.

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What they’re saying

“Our hearts sunk. We never experienced something like that.”

— Thomas Doell, Campbell's friend

What’s next

Campbell's friends are hoping he will pull through and recover from his injuries. The GoFundMe campaign they started aims to help cover his medical expenses.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks inherent in outdoor adventure sports like rock climbing, and the importance of having adequate insurance coverage when traveling. The climbing community has rallied around Campbell and his friends to provide financial and emotional support during this difficult time.