Trails Closed After Booby Traps Injure Runner

Pinnacle Park in Jackson County, North Carolina, has temporarily closed after a runner’s foot was impaled by a purposefully placed nail on the trail. According to 7 News, an unknown person nailed at least 60 spikes on trails in the area. 

The Citizen Times reports that the nails are almost four-inches long and were hammered into roots and logs at an angle, increasing the hazard level. Brian Barwatt, an engineer with the N.C. Department of Transportation, has worked with the Sylva police to uncover all potential nails in the park.

“We’re literally blowing every leaf off trail, and following behind with metal detectors. It was a deliberate effort,” said Barwatt to The Citizen Times.

One person was injured by the nails; another had a spike go through his shoe.

According to 7 News, some trails in the 1,000-acre park were expected to open on Tuesday. Pinnacle Park is home to the Black Rock Summit race on March 18, and administrators are attempting to ensure safety on the trails before then.

Authorities are offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible. Anyone with information should call the Sylva Police Department (828-586-2916). Those who want to donate to the reward fund should call the Town Hall (828-586-2719).