ICYMI: Daring Rescue in Washington! 85-Year-Old Hiker Found After Night on Mountain
An 85-year-old hiker spent the night stranded on Wind Mountain in Washington, saved by a daring rescue operation at dawn. đ #News #SkamaniaCountyWA #Washington #Rescus
SKAMANIA COUNTY, WA – What started as a scenic hike for an 85-year-old man turned into an unexpected ordeal on Wind Mountain, Washington. After setting out alone Wednesday afternoon, the man became stranded and had to endure the night on the rugged terrain. Thanks to a well-coordinated rescue effort involving multiple agencies, he was brought to safety early Thursday morning.
Son Reports His Father Missing
The hikerâs son raised the alarm at 11:18 p.m. Wednesday, reporting his father overdue after attempts to contact him by phone failed. According to the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office, the man had left for his hike around noon that day but had not returned by nightfall.
A sheriffâs deputy immediately responded to the trailhead at Wind Mountain, just east of Stevenson, WA, where the man’s vehicle was located. The search intensified as volunteers from the sheriffâs search and rescue team mobilized to comb the area.
Discovery and Rescue Effort
At 1:21 a.m. Thursday, searchers located the man approximately 75 feet off the trail. However, the steep, rugged terrain made it impossible to extract him without additional support. A rope rescue team was called in to assist, along with volunteers from several local organizations, including:
- Klickitat County Sheriffâs Office Search and Rescue
- Skamania County Fire Districts 1 and 2
- Skamania County Emergency Medical Services
The challenging conditions required precise teamwork. After hours of effort, the rescue team successfully brought the hiker to the trailhead by 7:14 a.m.
Hiker Transported to Hospital
The hiker was immediately transported to the hospital for medical care. Officials have not disclosed any information about his condition or potential injuries.
Officials Praise Teamwork and Volunteers
Skamania County Sheriff Summer Scheyer commended the rescue teams for their collaborative efforts. âThis mission is a direct reflection of the phenomenal, collaborative efforts of numerous teams making a difficult, but successful rescue,” Sheriff Scheyer said in a statement.
âThe Skamania County Sheriffâs Office is, as always, so appreciative of the efforts made by our volunteers and paid professionals who are willing to assist in providing these invaluable services.â
Outdoor adventures can quickly become dangerous, especially in remote areas where communication is limited. Hikers are urged to carry reliable equipment and inform others of their plans before setting off, ensuring a safer experience in the wilderness.
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