PHOTOS: A logger was rescued by the Oregon National Guard on Monday after being struck by a tree in the Mount Hood National Forest.
Crews responded to a remote area off Forest Road 4610 around 11:15 a.m. and found that the logger had broken their leg after being pinned by the falling tree.
“Fire crews responded to the remote location and were able to locate the injured individual from below the hillside. Access to the patient proved extremely challenging and time-consuming, due to steep terrain, significant elevation change, and numerous downed trees from the logging operation in the area. Firefighters hiked and climbed through the difficult terrain to reach the patient and begin medical treatment,” Estacada Fire District officials said.
“Once crews reached the patient, they provided medical care and stabilized the injured logger. An air ambulance from Life Flight Network was initially requested; however, due to the terrain and dense tree cover, the aircraft was unable to safely access the patient.”
Due to the “extremely dangerous” nature of the rescue, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office coordinated aerial rescue resources and the Oregon National Guard responded to the area with an HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
A successful hoist rescue operation was initiated, according to officials, allowing the logger to be rescued from the steep hillside.
The logger was taken to a local hospital, where they are recovering. No other injuries were reported.
KOIN-TV NBC 6 Portland
