A dramatic rescue unfolded Saturday after motorcyclists riding trails in the San Bernardino Mountains rose about 100 feet onto the hillside.
The April 26 incident unfolded just before 3:30pm, about half a mile from the Cleghorn Trail at Cajon Pass.
The rider reportedly suffered moderate injuries in the fall but was unable to return to the road, according to a statement posted on the fire department’s X account.
The initial request for rescue of the helicopter hoist had to be cancelled due to strong local winds and power lines.
“The challenging terrain and distance from the roads gave a response from a professional urban search and rescue officer,” the firefighter said. “The firefighters quickly established rope rescue systems using their mechanical advantage, raising riders safely onto the road, where emergency care continued.”
San Bernardino County FD’s first responder on April 26, 2025 at the scene of a motorcycle crash and rescue operation. (SBCFD) First Responder from San Bernardino County FD seen on April 26, 2025 at the scene of a motorcycle crash and rescue operation. 2025. (SBCFD) First responder from San Bernardino County FD seen on April 26, 2025 at the scene of a motorcycle crash and rescue operation. (SBCFD)
The rider was then rushed by ambulance to a local trauma centre.
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A rescue video released by the San Bernardino County Fire showed that the rear wheels of two reactive county vehicles were used to secure the rope rescue and pulled the injured rider up onto the hillside of Gurney, successfully pulling it safely and successfully.
Authorities were particularly praised for the all-terrain vehicles owned by the two counties that were used during the rescue.
“The San Bernardino County Fire ARV is a specialized vehicle that has proven to be invaluable across the county in recent weeks,” the firefighter said. “In several different incidents, they have made it possible for crew members to access difficult terrain, shuttle personnel and patients, and transport equipment more efficiently.”
All-terrain vehicles also reduced the fire station’s rescue time, allowing injured patients to receive treatment more quickly, according to the statement.
“The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District reminds us of outdoor enthusiasts to pay attention to the attention of off-road trail/recreation activities,” the firefighter added.
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