Woman Rescued After Becoming Lost in Oregon Wilderness

A stranded woman was dramatically rescued from Oregon’s snowy wilderness after leaving her car and getting lost on a forest road. 🌐 #News #SweetHomeOR #Oregon #Rescue

SWEET HOME, OR – A 30-year-old woman was found and rescued Wednesday after becoming lost in the snowy wilderness of Oregon. Her ordeal began when her car became stranded on a forest road, leaving her to navigate harsh winter conditions on foot, according to authorities.

Abandoned Vehicle Sparks Concern

An Oregon State Police (OSP) Fish and Wildlife Trooper discovered the woman’s unoccupied vehicle along Highway 20 near milepost 68 around 9:15 a.m. Wednesday.

The car, stuck on the shoulder, raised immediate concern. The trooper determined the driver was likely lost and in distress, prompting a swift search effort.

K-9 Scout Tracks Down Missing Woman

A coordinated rescue operation was launched, involving an OSP K-9 team and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue unit.

K-9 Scout, trained to locate missing persons, tracked the woman to a spot about a mile from her vehicle.

Authorities found that she had wandered up a U.S. Forest Service road after leaving her car for reasons that remain unclear.

Emergency Aid in Freezing Conditions

Rescuers acted quickly to ensure the woman’s safety. Troopers built a fire, provided food, and used emergency blankets to keep her warm while awaiting further assistance.

A snowcat team transported her back to Highway 20, where Sweet Home Fire Department personnel took her to a hospital for evaluation.

“Winter weather can be unpredictable, and conditions can change quickly. This rescue was a great team effort, and we are grateful this individual was quickly located and transported to safety,” said Oregon State Police Captain Kyle Kennedy in a statement.

Officials Respond to Multiple Stranded Motorist Calls

During the rescue effort, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office received two additional reports of motorists stranded on forest roads due to snow.

Sheriff Michelle Duncan offered important safety advice for those venturing into snowy areas.

“Always let a friend or family member know your destination and carry a cell phone or rescue beacon. It’s always a good idea to keep your car winter ready with safety items such as extra blankets or warm clothing, extra food and water, a first aid kit, and other survival items,” she said.

RELATED TOPICS: Accidents and Rescues | Oregon