July 13, 2025 – Kern County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on June 30, 2025, at approximately 8:15 p.m., the Kern County Sheriff’s Office was notified by Cal OES of a distress activation from a Garmin InReach emergency beacon. The signal originated from a location along the Pacific Crest Trail, northwest of Rosamond, California.

Kern County Search and Rescue personnel responded to the area with assistance from the Sheriff’s Office helicopter, Air 1. Upon arrival, Air 1 located a stranded hiker on a steep downhill slope just off the trail. The hiker was unable to return to the trail due to an ankle injury and unstable, loose rock that posed a risk of further sliding.

Air 1 successfully landed in the area, and the air crew made contact with the injured hiker. The hiker was safely assisted into the helicopter and transported to the Search and Rescue command post, where they were medically evaluated.

View video here.

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind outdoor enthusiasts to carry emergency communication devices, remain aware of trail conditions, and avoid hazardous terrain when possible.

Source: Kern County Sheriff’s Office