A kayaker found themselves in a perilous situation after falling into the American River and becoming separated from their vessel, prompting a complex rescue operation by helicopter. The incident unfolded on the south fork of the river near Camino, roughly 50 miles from Sacramento. Fox40 reported on the event, detailing how the difficult terrain and rapid waters made the rescue particularly challenging.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) disclosed details of the daring rescue in a Facebook post, which featured video footage from the helicopter's hoist camera. Due to the area's harsh conditions, including steep vertical terrain and swift water, it was necessary for the helicopter and its crew to execute a hoist rescue. Located on the river’s edge adjacent to the kayak, found caught in an eddy, was the individual in distress. The CHP - Valley Division Air Operations stated on a Facebook post that "the determination was made to conduct a hoist rescue of kayaker."
Helicopter H-24 was promptly at the scene after a request was placed by Cal Fire Camino. The kayaker's predicament was precarious, making the direct involvement of ground crews not just impractical but potentially perilous. Therefore, the CHP decided that the aerial retrieval was the optimal course of action.
A Helicopter Rescue Technician (HRT) from El Dorado County Fire was deployed adjacent to the victim, according to the video provided by the CHP. Following the rescue, the CHP's H-24 hoisted the individual from the site and transferred him to the waiting ground medics, where – though cold and shaken – they thankfully survived the ordeal with no mention of severe injuries.
