At 15:32 on Saturday, October 26th the team receives the callout for a fallen hiker near Abiquiu Lake and hands are needed for a litter haul. We would later learn the fall occurred near the top of Cerro Pedernal peak. After mustering at CD-1 we drove to IB and decided we could four wheel it further up the road cutting down on our hike. Even so, it was getting dark by the time we hit the trail.
We were looking at a couple mile hike to the subject where teams from Atalaya Search and Rescue where already with the patient providing care. However, as we hiked, talk of a possible helicopter extraction was coming over the radio. The initial news was that a helicopter without hoist capabilities would be on the way. Without hoist capabilities the helicopter would have to land. We were instructed to proceed to the landing zone another team had setup and await further instructions. We were thinking our job would turn into helping move the patient to the landing zone.
By the time we reached the landing zone Incident Command had found a helicopter that could hoist the patient off the mountain meaning more than likely we would not be needed. So, we took the opportunity to rest, eat and visit. Santa Fe Search and Rescue Group also arrived around this time, and we had time to visit with them as well.
Below is a short video of the helicopter coming in to lift the injured hiker off the mountain. We were too far away, and it was too dark to get a good view, but the video captures the unique sound of an incoming Huey wonderfully.
Again, it was too dark, and we were too far away to get good pictures, but our patient was successfully airlifted from the mountain. After making sure the remaining teams didn’t need any additional help and rides had been arranged, we hiked back to our vehicles and headed home. Thanks to all who participated!