Update: Teen in Critical Condition Following Fall From Cliff

A 17-year-old, Ben Backes of Branford, is listed in critical condition tonight from injuries sustained in a 35-foot fall from a cliff.

According to Fire Chief Jack Ahern, the teen fell from a cliff near the Branford Trolley Trail on Pleasant Point Road at approximately 6 p.m. The cliff is located about 200 feet off the road, Ahern said.

Backes was conscious at the scene; however, he was in a great deal of pain, Ahern said.

"Paramedics treated and prepared the victim for transport out of this very wooded and treacherous area," he said. "Firefighters used a 'Stokes' style stretcher and hand carried the victim to an awaiting ambulance. The extent of his injuries are unknown at this time."

The area is often frequented by young kids and there were several kids present upon fire department arrival, according to Ahern. Branford Police are conducting an investigation at this time.

Backes is a forward for the Branford Soccer team.

Patch will continue to provide updates as information comes in.