A hiker in Southern California found himself trapped under a massive boulder for seven hours until a heroic nighttime rescue was carried out by volunteers last week. The incident took place in the Inyo Mountains, just below Santa Rita Flat near Independence. The boulder, weighing between 6,000 and 10,000 pounds, had pinned the hiker’s left leg on a steep hillside, causing him great pain.
The Inyo County Search and Rescue team, along with a California Highway Patrol helicopter, sprung into action. Two rescuers were dropped off on the mountain by the helicopter, while seven others followed in vehicles through challenging four-wheel drive roads. After nightfall, the team reached the hiker and assessed his injuries.
Using a system of ropes and pulleys, the rescuers were able to move the boulder enough to free the hiker. Due to the seriousness of his injuries and the difficult terrain, a decision was made to use a helicopter from the US Naval Air Station Lemoore for the extraction. A U.S. Navy medic rappelled from the helicopter and hoisted the injured hiker to safety.
The hiker was then flown to Fresno for treatment, and his condition is currently unknown. The remaining rescuers made their way down the mountain and reached their base in Bishop in the early hours of the morning.
The daring rescue operation faced several challenges, including coordinating multiple agencies and resources, accessing the accident scene in treacherous terrain, and using limited resources to move the heavy boulder. The rescuers also had to manage the severely injured patient for hours while awaiting the helicopter extrication. The entire operation took place in the chilly darkness of December.
This incident serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of the search and rescue teams who risk their lives to save others.
