October 1, 2023 - Madera County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on September 30, 2023, around 10:00 a.m., the Madera County Sheriff’s Office received a Garmin activation notification from a hiker who suffered a possible broken ankle in the area of Garnet Lake and Thousand Island Lake, near the Pacific Coast Trail.

The Madera County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services coordinated with Naval Air Station Lemoore SAR to dispatch a helicopter crew to rescue the hiker. The responding Search and Rescue helicopter experienced difficulties resulting in a hard landing. Thankfully, the four service members on board the helicopter only suffered minor injuries. Rescue efforts for the hiker and helicopter crew are ongoing, and a security and safety team is en route.

NASL has stated the cause of the crash is currently under investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Source: Madera County Sheriff’s Office