San Diego Fire-Rescue Department's Lifeguards faced a challenging Friday evening with two serious incidents involving multiple victims. Around 6:30 p.m., lifeguards at South Mission Beach were called into action when strong ocean waves swept two individuals off the South Mission jetty. A swift water rescue ensued, with lifeguards navigating rough surf via rescue boats and from the jetty, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.
They managed to quickly locate and assist the first victim, who could walk. The second found unconscious and struggling to breathe, was prepared for an aerial extraction by the SDFD helicopter. However, a sudden influx of large waves disrupted the operation, sweeping rescuers and victims off the jetty. Despite several injuries among the lifesaving team, rescuers regrouped and successfully airlifted the critical patient to Lifeguard Headquarters, where further medical support awaited.
As that emergency unfolded, another distress call arrived at 6:40 p.m. about five individuals trapped on a cliff in Box Canyon. The lifeguards launched a cliff rescue operation, learning that while the group was uninjured, they could not return to safety due to the terrain. With coordinated efforts stretching into the evening darkness, all five were extricated and brought back to street level without harm.
Four SDFD lifeguards incurred minor injuries during these missions, with three and the helicopter rescue medic treated at local hospitals. All but one have been released as of yesterday.
