An autopsy report for the Summit High School teacher who died after falling while climbing near Officers Gulch stated the manner of his death as an accident.

Rick Karden, a Silverthorne resident, died July 29 from multiple blunt force trauma injuries, according to the report. 

A police report released in early August provided a “possible explanation” for the cause of Karden’s fall, stating he reached the end of his rope while rappelling down the climbing route and fell when his rappelling device came “off the end of the rope.”

The autopsy report details blunt force trauma injuries to Karden’s head and neck, trunk and extremities.

In previous Summit Daily reporting, Karden’s family said he enjoyed outdoor activities and spending quality time with his children. Coworkers said he was “all about increasing opportunities for kids.”

Karden’s family will host a celebration of life Saturday, Aug. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Silverthorne Pavilion. Friends of the Karden family have created a Meal Train page, where community members can sign up to provide the family with meals and donate.