The seriously injured hiker was found screaming for help after plunging into a popular hiking destination along the way and crashing into a rock, officials confirmed Monday.
Fall took place on a Sunday afternoon in Big Falls near the forest falls in the San Bernardino Mountains.
An emergency crew was dispatched around 3:45pm after someone reported hearing a scream for help coming from the waterfall, according to the San Bernardino County Fire Post Office. Reporting parties were unable to see the injured, but said the screams came midway through the waterfall.
Officials say the hiker lost footing while trying to cross the wet, slippery section of the waterfall, causing a plunge into a rocky pool of about 25 feet.
Firefighters hiked and found a seriously injured man. After performing a medical evaluation, the crew called a hoist-responsive rescue helicopter.
The helicopters dropped paramedics into the area, and along with ground personnel, the team pinned the hikers to Stokes baskets. The video was captured as he was airlifted from the scene and flying to a nearby trauma center. His current status is unknown.
No other injuries have been reported.
The San Bernardino County fire reminded visitors to stay on trails marked and pay attention near the waterfall.
“We deal with incidents in this popular location where people are seriously injured,” the department wrote. “Make wise choices and stay safe.”
Several units responded to the incident, including rescue units, fire trucks, battalion chiefs, rescue helicopters and public relations officers.
Source link