Sheriff’s Aviation Conduct Hoist Rescue on Injured Hiker

MT. BALDY, Calif:(VVNG.com)- A 59-year-old Newport woman was hoisted to safety by a Sheriff’s aviation unit after she injured herself while hiking.

On Friday, August 26th at 12:30 p.m. dispatch received a call from Cynthia Cork stating she was on a hiking trail and needed assistance.

Cork was hiking the Cucamonga Trail near Ice House Canyon on Mt. Baldy when she slipped on a narrow steep section of the trail injuring her left ankle.

Sheriff’s deputies from the Fontana station and Sheriff’s Helicopter Air Rescue 306 responded. Cork was located by the crew of Air Rescue 306 at the 7000ft level in very steep and rugged mountain terrain. Cork’s location was at least a three-hour hike for ground rescue crews to reach her.

The crew of Air Rescue 306, Pilot Corporal Mike Gilley, Crew Chief Corporal Mike Ells, Rescue Medic Deputy Paul Kowalski and Rescue Doctor Robert Katzer conducted a helicopter hoist rescue of Cork. Dr, Katzer was lowered from the helicopter 130ft with a rescue harness to Corks location.

Cork was placed into the harness and hoisted up to the helicopter followed by Katzer. Cork was transported to Cow Canyon Saddle to awaiting deputies and medical personnel.