BOONE COUNTY — A 23-year-old woman was airlifted to University Hospital late Sunday after suffering lower body injuries from a 25-foot fall while rock climbing in the dark, Boone County Fire Protection District officials said. 

Lt. Martina Pounds said the woman, whom she would not name, was climbing with a man near 4308 Akeman Bridge Road. One of the climbers called in a few minutes after 9 p.m., and 15 responders were on the scene at 10:27 p.m. 

Pounds said the woman suffered injuries to her lower-right ankle but was airlifted in case there more serious injuries to the back or neck. The extent of the injuries could not be confirmed. Pounds said the male climber refused medical attention but did not appear to be hurt.

The pair was free climbing on limestone rock, known to be soft and unstable. The Fire District discourages climbing on limestone and climbing at night.

For safety tips on climbing, Pounds suggests the Alpine Shop and Missouri Wilderness Coalition's websites.