A hiker who slipped while walking a trail at Chestnut Ridge was airlifted via Mercy Flight to ECMC last night.
WBFO's Cheryl Hagen has the story...
"A trail walker was basically on the top of the ridge, lost his balance and slipped down," says Orchard Park Fire Chief Richard Mrugalski. "He did injure his back, at least that's the indication we have right now."
Rescue crews found the unidentified 20-year-old hiker at the bottom of a ravine near the park's eternal flame. Mrugalski says the hiker slid 40-to-50-feet and then likely fell another 20 feet. He adds the rescue operation involved more than two dozen firefighters and medics. Crews repelled down a steep ridge to reach the victim.
"He was conscious and alert throughout the whole operation," says Mrugalski. "He was Mercy Flighted out to ECMC."
Mrugalski adds this is the second such incident this season. Mrugalski advises hikers to wear proper shoes and be aware of anything that might cause you to trip. He also suggests to avoid climbing without the proper gear.
There's no word on the hiker's condition today.
*Special thanks to Mike McKay for providing audio for this story.
