A daring 19-hour rescue operation in San Diego, California, resulted in the successful extraction of a man who had been trapped on the side of a cliff for several days. The unidentified man had slipped and become trapped in a small crevice near the Sunset Cliffs and was stuck there for at least three days before a group of teenagers heard his cries for help and called 911.
The rescue effort, which took nearly a full day and involved both the San Diego fire department and the Chula Vista fire department, was described as “treacherous” due to the difficult terrain and the rising tides. At one point, the rescue crews also faced the concern of the man potentially drowning as water filled the bottom cavity cave where his legs were trapped between heavy rocks.
Using micro-explosives, the rescuers were finally able to break apart the rocks and free the man at around 11am on Friday. He was then taken to a local hospital for further evaluation, where he was reported to be awake and alert, despite sustaining injuries during the ordeal.
The successful rescue operation was both a testament to the skill and determination of the first responders involved, as well as a relief for the man and his loved ones. The man’s gratitude to the crews who assisted in his extrication serves as a reminder of the important, life-saving work of first responders in the community.