By Aidan Mortensen | KOAL News | Photos courtesy of the Emery County Sheriff’s Office

Weeks after performing their’ Operation Arrowhead’ training, which involved helicopter hoisting and repelling, the Emery County Search and Rescue team had to put these skills to the test. In a May 3 rescue, SAR members hoisted a man with the assistance of a helicopter out of the Goblin’s Lair section of Goblin Valley.

The incident occurred when a man who was repelling with friends fell approximately 60 feet to the ground, landing on his head and neck. The man’s climbing companions immediately alerted park rangers, who made the emergency call to the Emery County Sheriff’s Dispatch. According to Emery County Sheriff Tyson Huntington,” The response was truly impressive with EMS, Emery County Sheriff Search and Rescue (SAR), Utah Department of Public Safety Aero Bureau (DPS), medical helicopters, and ECSO deputies all heading to the scene.”

The victim received initial treatment from park rangers and EMTs on the scene before the SAR team could arrive. Upon arrival, the various organizations worked together to assist in hoisting the man using a DPS helicopter. After being lifted to the aircraft, the man was transported to a Utah Valley hospital for further care.

“Incredibly, the individual sustained only minor injuries and is reportedly doing well, though understandably quite sore,” said Sheriff Huntington. “This incident really highlights the dedication and teamwork of our local emergency responders.”

The sheriff also praised the various organizations that assisted in the rescue: “A huge THANK YOU goes out to the Goblin Valley State Park Rangers, Emery Town EMTs, DNR Law Enforcement, Emery County SAR, Emery County Sheriff’s Office, and all the other individuals who stepped up to assist someone in need. Their swift and coordinated efforts made a real difference.”