Mono County Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team rescues an injured hiker near Pyramid Peak

Date:     May 12, 2015
Subject: Search and Rescue Team Operation

On the evening of Monday, May 11th, 2015, at approximately 9:30pm, the Mono County Sheriff’s Office received a call regarding an injured hiker near Pyramid Peak.

A male hiker, age 56, of Mammoth Lakes, began a hike to Pyramid Peak in the Sherwin Range. At about 4:00pm, as he was descending a rocky area, his right foot slipped on the snow between two boulders and the fall pinned his leg between the boulders. He was unable to extricate his leg for several hours. During this time, he lost his jacket in high winds and his headlamp fell down a crack and was lost. As darkness fell, he was able to free his leg and called 911 for assistance as he was wet, cold and had no light source to continue down the mountain.

The Mono County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (SAR) Team was dispatched to rescue the injured hiker. Twelve team members staged at the Mammoth Lakes SAR facility and dispatched two field teams. They were able to access the area and hike to the subject’s location. Following an EMT assessment, it was determined the hiker would be able to hike slowly down the mountainside with aid from the SAR team rescuers. Upon reaching the trailhead, an additional patient assessment was conducted and the subject signed a medical care release form. He was transported to his vehicle to seek his own treatment.

The Mono County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (SAR) Team wants to remind everyone how unexpected problems can arise while recreating in our mountains and backcountry. Remember to always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Always bring the proper equipment for the terrain and area, as well as being prepared to spend the night outdoors. - Jennifer M. Hansen, Public Information Officer