Arizona man survives mine shaft fall

More from this show

Since 1969, 35 people have died after falling into Arizona mine shafts.

John Waddell, an Arizona resident, fell 100-feet into an abandoned gold mine shaft in October 2018. He broke his leg, ankle and encountered three rattlesnakes.

Without cellphone service, a flashlight, food or water, Waddell said, “I didn’t know anyone was coming for me. I thought I was going to die.”

Nearly three days after the fall, Waddell’s friend went looking for him and heard his cries for help.

It took rescue crews about three hours to hoist Waddell out of the shaft. But, despite the physical trauma, Waddell says he’ll continue to explore.

John Waddell

Psyche Mission
airs Oct. 4

Psyche mission

A green monster with a goofy grin holds a large toothbrush. Text: HealthySmileLearning.org Video Contest: How does your favorite monster brush its teeth?
Oct. 8

Digital Video Contest 2023

Hispanic Heritage Awards image
airs Sept. 29

Hispanic Heritage Awards

Tito Munoz conducting the Phoenix Symphony
aired Sept. 25

Opening Night: A Romantic Evening

Subscribe to Arizona PBS Newsletters

STAY in touch
with azpbs.org!

Subscribe to Arizona PBS Newsletters: