Maryland State Police Aviation Unit Executes Dramatic Aerial Rescue of Injured Mountain Biker

Maryland State Police Aviation Command successfully performed an aerial hoist rescue of a mountain biker who suffered a seizure and fell in a remote section of Rocky Gap State Park on Sunday, according to a press release from the Maryland Department of State Police. The incident required the specialized capabilities of the State Police helicopter due to the victim’s inaccessible location and the nature of the injuries sustained.

The rescue operation commenced around 11:09 a.m. on July 19th when Allegany County emergency personnel were dispatched to the park’s trail system. Upon arrival, they found the mountain biker in a location that would have presented significant challenges for traditional extrication methods, prompting the request for aerial assistance. Trooper 5, the State Police helicopter stationed in Cumberland, Maryland, was immediately dispatched to the scene.

Local emergency medical services and rescue teams continued to provide patient care on the ground and aided in preparing the individual for extraction. Once Trooper 5 reached the park, a Trooper and Rescue Technician was lowered from the hovering helicopter into a small clearing amidst the trees. The victim was then secured using a specialized aerial rescue vest device for transport. The pilots of Trooper 5 expertly maneuvered the aircraft, allowing for the safe and secure hoisting of the biker into the helicopter. Following the successful aerial extraction, the flight crew shifted their focus to medical transport, immediately taking the patient to a nearby hospital for necessary medical treatment. The AgustaWestland AW-139 helicopter was utilized for this complex rescue.

The Maryland State Police Aviation Command, which has been operational since 1970, maintains a fleet of 10 AW139 helicopters. These aircraft are strategically positioned across seven bases throughout Maryland, ensuring 24/7 coverage for residents and visitors. The Command’s diverse missions encompass a wide range of critical services, including medical evacuations, law enforcement support, search and rescue operations, homeland security initiatives, and disaster assessment. The effectiveness of these operations is largely attributed to the strong collaborative efforts among local fire departments, rescue squads, emergency medical services, law enforcement agencies, and other partner organizations. This coordinated approach is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in challenging situations across the state.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of State Police.

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