an critical following fall 
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Jackson Hole (Wyoming) Daily
Tuesday, August 6, 2002
an critical following fall
By Carolyn Smith
Jackson Hole News
One man was in critical condition and a woman was in serious condition after the couple fell off a third-floor balcony at The Hostel in Teton Village on Sunday.
Jerem Koepnick, 23 of Rupert, Idaho, and Becky Robbins, 27 of Burley, Idaho, were flown to LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City for treatment after their fall. Koepnick was still in the intensive care unit Monday, being treated for multiple trauma injuries.
The accident occurred at about 2:10 a.m. Sunday. Robbins was sitting on the railing of the balcony pretending to fall off and allowing Koepnick to catch her, investigators said.
The couple played the fall-and-catch game several times, a witness told investigators. During the last attempt, Robbins leaned back and as Koepnick tried to catch her, he stumbled and bumped into her.
The two both fell over the railing, Teton County Sheriff’s deputy Dave Hodges reported.
Koepnick was unconscious and had “obvious” head trauma, according to sheriff’s reports. Robbins, who was conscious, complained of severe back pain.
The couple was taken to St. John’s Medical Center before being flown to Salt Lake City.
Hodges said in a report that alcohol “played a pivotal role” in the accident. “Hostel guests noted both victims had been drinking throughout the evening,” he reported.
Hostel staff had to quiet the couple down only minutes before the accident, police said.
Submitted on 08/06/2002
Submitted by:
Richard Mintel
Reference:
Jackson Hole Daily, Aug 6 2002
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