'Grueling' rescue of snowmobiler a success
(Courtesy photo) Boundary County Search and Dive Rescue Incident Command, keeping in constant contact with the team members during the seven hour search last Friday.
BONNERS FERRY — On Friday, Jan. 11, a snowmobiler was injured approximately 150 feet below Roman Nose peak in the Fall Creek drainage. Boundary Search and Dive Rescue (SAR), Boundary Ambulance, and South Boundary Fire Protection District responded shortly after 2 p.m.
“This was a grueling operation due to the conditions,” said Boundary Search and Dive Rescue Commander Tony Jeppesen.
The amount of snow as well as failing light were obstacles that the 17 first responders battled to rescue the injured snowmobiler.
“The trail was clear for the most part, but rough, and the ride was long,” said Boundary Search and Dive Rescue team member Evan Phillips, who was part of the first team that was deployed.
South Boundary Fire assisted SAR with three people.
“We were there to offer whatever support we could for search and rescue,” said South Boundary Fire Chief Tony Rohrwasser. “We usually have resources and knowledge about the area closest to us.”
Boundary Ambulance Paramedic/Captain John Minden was involved in the search and rescue operation.
“We appreciate all of our partners in Boundary County that assisted in this very grueling rescue!” stated Boundary Ambulance on their Facebook page.
Upon reaching the victim at about 9:15 p.m., a Life Flight helicopter then transported the subject to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
“The team faced quite a few challenges along the way,” said Jeppesen. “They met those head on and did a fantastic job.”