A woman was in the water up to her neck.
Cumberland, Md (KM) A Maryland State Police helicopter successfully rescued a woman who had fallen into Rocky Gap Run waterway in Allegany County.
She was with another woman who are both employees of the Department of Natural Resources.. They were taking water samples and doing measurements when one fell into the stream up to her neck..
The other DNR employee contacted nine-one-one and told the dispatchers they were unable to get back to their vehicle located two miles away.
The helicopter Trooper 5 was dispatched, and managed to locate the two. State Police say the crew assessed the situation, including the status of the wet victim and her exposure, and determined that a hoist mission was the most appropriate.
The chopper landed at Rocky Gap to configure the aircraft and consult with rescue personnel. Natural Resources Police arrived on the scene, and determined both women were able to move, but the one in the water was unable to get back to the vehicle.
State Police say a rescue technician from Trooper 5 was sent to the stream, and was able to provide assistance to the victim, and determine a suitable location to lower the basket. A short time later, the helicopter was able to hoisted the victim out of the water, and she was flown to the Rocky Gap helipad. She was taken to the Western Maryland Regional Medical Center for treatment.
The second woman was not hurt, and she was able to walk with Natural Resources Police back to her vehicle.
By Kevin McManus