Photo credit: Chisago Sheriff’s Office
It was a beautiful day in Franconia Township, Minnesota, when a 74-year-old man decided to take a stroll along the St. Croix River. But what started as a leisurely walk turned into a life-threatening situation when he fell over a cliff face and tumbled all the way down to the valley.
Luckily, the man’s terrifying fall was witnessed by a passerby who quickly alerted the authorities. What followed was a daring rescue operation that involved multiple agencies and some incredible heroics.
First responders were faced with the daunting challenge of rescuing the man from near-vertical terrain, but they were undaunted. With the help of three local fire agencies, they were able to rig ropes and reach the man, who was bleeding and unconscious after his 50-foot fall.
Despite the difficult terrain, the rescue team was determined to save the man’s life. Specialized equipment and individuals with special training in “difficult terrain evacuation” were brought in from the Taylors Falls Fire Department and the St. Croix Falls Fire Department.
Eventually, the Minnesota Air Rescue Team was able to hoist the victim up to level ground using a helicopter. The man was then transferred to a medical helicopter and taken to a local trauma center for treatment.
Thanks to the seamless efforts of every agency involved, the man is expected to survive his ordeal. His injuries were severe, but he did not require any major surgeries, according to Captain Derek Anklan of the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office.
This incredible rescue operation is a testament to the bravery and dedication of first responders and the importance of having specialized training and equipment to handle even the most challenging situations. We wish the victim a speedy recovery and commend all those who played a role in his rescue.
Sources
https://people.com/minn-crews-rescue-74-year-old-man-who-fell-50-ft-off-cliff-7564202
