Hikers deploy their emergency GPS distress signals after becoming stuck in a snow-packed ridge line
DATE/TIME: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 2:30 pm
INCIDENT: Hoist Rescue
LOCATION: San Antonio Canyon, Mount Baldy
VICTIM: Sally Morley, 61years old, Resident of Temecula
Ellen Coleman, 63 years old, Resident of Riverside
SUMMARY:
On January 25, 2017, the victims were hiking down a snow-packed ridgeline into San Antonio Canyon at the 8500’ level. Despite having appropriate snow hiking gear, they realized the terrain was too steep and the snow was turning to ice. They were unable to climb out from their location and were in need of assistance. The victims used their GPS devices and activated the emergency distress signals.
Sheriff’s patrol helicopter 40King4 (Pilot Sergeant Dan Futscher and Tactical Flight Officer Deputy Paul Kowalski) was dispatched to the location in an attempt to locate the victims. They immediately located the victims at the end of a steep ridge. Due to the circumstances and elevation, Air Rescue 307, which was staffed with Sheriff and Fire personnel, was dispatched to assist in rescue efforts.
Air Rescue 307 responded to the location to conduct a hoist rescue. Pilot Corporal Jon Anderson hovered over the victims, while Crew Chief Deputy Ed Leon lowered Firefighter Spencer Brumbaugh down on the hoist, 100 feet to the victims. Brumbaugh contacted both victims and placed them into rescue harnesses. Deputy Leon hoisted both victims individually into the aircraft, followed by Brumbaugh. The victims were flown to Cow Canyon Saddle and were released to personnel on scene.
Refer: Deputy E. Leon
Station: Aviation Unit
Phone No. (909) 252-4100
Case No. FN170250051
John McMahon, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
Address/Location
SBSD - Headquarters
655 E 3rd St
San Bernardino, CA 92408
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 909-387-3700