Helicopter Rescue After Severe Injury on Popular New York Mountain

It's been a dangerous week for hikers in New York State, including a recent incident that required an emergency helicopter rescue from a "challenging" mountain trail.

Across the region, accidents have varied from broken bones to fatal accidents, including a recent tragedy at Kaaterskill Falls, where a visiting hiker ultimately succumbed to their injuries after a serious fall. In the Adirondacks, special training and equipment was needed for a different rescue.

NYS DEC Rescue in the Adirondacks

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recently reported an incident involving a subject with a severe knee injury on Hurricane Mountain in the Adirondacks.

New York State Police Aviation Assistance on Hurricane Mountain

The NYS DEC shared that the type of injury, as well as the location of the hiker, led to the decision to call on the New York State Police for assistance with an aerial rescue:

NYSP Pilot Sgt. Beck flew to the site with Rangers Lewis and O’Connor. Ranger Lewis lowered Ranger O’Connor to tend to the subject’s injuries and secure them for a hoist. Ranger Lewis successfully hoisted the subject into the helicopter. The patient was transported to Adirondack Medical Center

Depending on terrain and condition of the subject, rangers have several options to consider when planning a recue operation. While helicopters are helpful under the right conditions, more "basic" options like litters (below) are also used.

Occasionally, outside help is needed for specialy rescues. Check out what happened when a small dog became trapped in a deep crevice in Minnewaska State Park below.