Police: Over 40 nails hammered into trail in attempt to hurt runners

SYLVA, N.C. (AP) – Authorities have closed a popular Jackson County park after a runner impaled his foot on a nail that they believed was purposely placed.

Local media outlets report a search of the 1,100-acre Pinnacle Park has turned up 40 nails hammered into tree roots and logs since Saturday.

Brian Barwatt, an engineer with the N.C. Department of Transportation and the director of a trail race in Pinnacle Park in March, said someone hammered 4-inch long galvanized nails and left them sticking out one-half to 1 inch, and at an angle. One person was hurt and another stepped on a nail that went through his shoe but didn’t hurt his foot.

There is a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

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2/21/2017 1:14:12 PM (GMT -5:00)