Ala. teen killed in rappelling accident during family outing

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) - A 14-year-old girl has died in a rappelling accident during a family trip to Mt. Cheaha State Park.

Park superintendent Tammy Power tells Al.com (https://bit.ly/1FgnRwP) the accident happened Saturday while the girl’s family was rappelling at Pulpit Rock Trail. Rappelling involves rock climbers who are suspended by a rope using their feet to push away from the side of a cliff or wall while they descend.

Shelby County Schools spokeswoman Cindy Warner identified the girl as 14-year-old Millie Elia, a cheerleader, honor student and band member at Oak Mountain Middle School in Birmingham. Warner says the school is offering counseling for students and teachers.