Originally published December 10, 2007 at 12:00 AM | Page modified December 10, 2007 at 3:47 PM
Bellingham sued over swimming hole injury
The city of Bellingham has been sued by a woman who was paralyzed in a fall at a popular swimming hole. The lawsuit filed last month says...
BELLINGHAM — The city of Bellingham has been sued by a woman who was paralyzed in a fall at a popular swimming hole.
The lawsuit filed last month says the city knew the whirlpool area of Whatcom Falls Park was used by swimmers and failed to post conspicuous warning signs.
Katie Hofstetter fell two years ago while climbing on rocks and broke her back, leaving her without the use of her legs. The suit seeks money for her medical care and disability.
The city parks operations manager, Marvin Harris, says large signs near the park entrances advise there are no designated swimming areas. He says smaller signs inside the park have been torn down.
Firefighters have rescued injured people from the creek five times in the past two years.
Copyright © 2007 The Seattle Times Company
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