The Tulare County Sheriff's Office in California announced on 14/8 the successful rescue of 46-year-old Ryan Wardwell from Long Beach. He was trapped at a waterfall on the Seven Teacups trail.
According to the Sheriff's Office, Wardwell was rappelling down the waterfall on the morning of 10/8 and was last seen at the top of the falls that evening. When he didn't return, a friend reported him missing the next day.
On the morning of 12/8, the Sheriff's Office dispatched a search and rescue team and divers to the scene. Using a drone equipped with an infrared camera, they located Wardwell trapped behind the waterfall. The California Highway Patrol then sent a helicopter, which lowered a line to pull Wardwell to safety.
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Wardwell being rescued by helicopter on 12/8. Photo: LA Times |
Wardwell being rescued by helicopter on 12/8. Photo: LA Times
Officials reported that he suffered minor injuries and dehydration. Wardwell said he had slipped from his rope and become trapped behind the waterfall by the strong current.
"We remind everyone to be aware of their surroundings and their own abilities, especially when navigating fast-flowing rivers," the Tulare County Sheriff's Office wrote on social media on 14/8, alongside a video of the rescue.
The 4-mile Seven Teacups trail is known for its series of connected pools resembling teacups. The trail follows Dry Meadow Creek, which flows into the Kern River. American climbing experts describe the trail as dangerous, requiring ropes and rappelling equipment.
In 8/2024, three climbers drowned at the end of this trail due to an unexpected whirlpool.
Duc Trung (According to Los Angeles Times, AP)
