A hiker sustained critical injuries after reportedly falling from a considerable height of between 50 and 75 feet on Lookout Mountain in Phoenix. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. Monday, and the Phoenix Fire Department, along with crews from Scottsdale, responded to the scene.
The unidentified man, who is said to be in his 30s, was found "unconscious and not breathing" following the fall and required to be quickly airlifted off the mountain for medical attention, as first reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. Technical Rescue Teams were deployed to facilitate the rescue operation, though it's currently unclear whether the hiker was a local resident or visiting from outside the region.
Captain Todd Keller with the Phoenix Fire Department provided details to 12 News, saying, "This is not our every day mountain rescue." Bystanders had reportedly heard the hiker's calls for help before he was discovered by rescue teams.
In light of the rescue, Keller urged hikers to always wear appropriate footwear and to adhere to marked trails. He also recommended that individuals never hike alone, proposing to always bring a partner for safety. The Phoenix Fire Department shared updates on the rescue operation via their official Twitter account.
The investigation into what exactly led to the man's critical injuries is ongoing, and more details are expected to be released as the authorities gather further information on the matter. The hiker is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital, and the full extent of his condition is yet to be revealed.
