Olympic Mountain Rescue

MASON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE – MEDIA RELEASE

Today, the Mason County Sheriff’s Office responded to a Search and Rescue incident on Mt. Washington involving an injured hiker who had reportedly fallen from a cliff area.

After receiving additional information regarding the subject’s injuries, which included reported head and hip injuries, rescue efforts were coordinated to ensure the safest and most effective response due to the difficult terrain and nature of the injuries. Olympic Mountain Rescue responded and assisted with rescue operations on the mountain. Due to concerns regarding the subject’s condition and the terrain involved, a request was also made through State Emergency Operations for helicopter assistance. The subject was ultimately successfully rescued by the US Navy Whidbey Island helicopter crew and transported from the mountain for medical care.

The Mason County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank Olympic Mountain Rescue, the US Navy Whidbey Island helicopter crew, State EOC personnel, and all responding resources involved in the successful rescue effort.

~P17

Yesterday OMR was called out to High Steel Bridge. A man had gone after his drone, slid down the steep embankment beneath the bridge, and couldn't get back up on his own. He was uninjured after the slide but quickly realized he wouldn't be able to climb back out. He then called 911 for help. The Mason County Sheriff's Office dispatched Mason County Search & Rescue to the scene as well as OMR for a technical rope rescue.

Ten of our members responded to rig and run a twin tension system to bring him back up. Uninjured and home safe.

Grateful for everyone who turned out and an incredible job by all teams involved for what turned out to be a multi-faceted technical rescue.

Quick PSA while we're here: the canyon below the bridge is closed, and for good reason. The terrain looks hikeable from above. It really isn't. It's steep, loose, unforgiving, and it's taken lives before.

Enjoy this place. Just please enjoy it from the bridge. :)