An investigation into the 2009 Nutty Putty cave tragedy has revealed new details about the rescue attempt and the misinformation that surrounded it. John Edward Jones, a 26-year-old medical student, became trapped upside-down in a narrow passage and died after over 24 hours inverted.
The official incident report by the National Speleological Society describes how a dual haul system was rigged with pulleys anchored at multiple points. The final anchor, described as a 'seemingly bomber natural anchor', was actually a natural bridge with a sharp edge that cut through the 11mm rope. When the rope snapped, the equipment struck rescuer Ryan Shurtz, knocking him unconscious and causing severe injuries. He later recovered.
The failure dropped Jones about a foot deeper, ending any realistic hope of rescue. The report states: 'The drop did not injure him, but effectively ended any hope of rescue as his condition had been severely declining.' Jones became unresponsive shortly after.
Compounding the tragedy, a rescuer had exited the cave and told waiting press that Jones was nearly free. This false news was broadcast widely, causing confusion and hurt. The report notes: 'Inaccurate comments can cause a lot of confusion and hurt.' It recommends all press interactions be handled through a designated Press Information Officer.
Another lesser-known fact is that the landowner initially wanted to dynamite the entire cave system. Cavers negotiated a compromise, and only the entrance was sealed with concrete on December 3, 2009. Jones's body was never recovered, and a plaque commemorates his life.
