Search & Rescue Crews Called To Another Incident Overnight

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Authorities said search and rescue crews were deployed to another incident, this time off the Mount Olympus trail in Salt Lake County.

The 69-year-old hiker fell approximately 15 feet in the area of Neff’s Canyon and injured his back, according to the Unified Police Department. However, it’s believed he’ll be OK.

The man was able to call 911 shortly after 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and alert authorities to his location.

The Utah Department of Public Safety deployed a helicopter to locate the hiker. Crews were able to hoist him off the mountain and to the trailhead before transporting him to the hospital.

Officials said he is in good condition, although he has some broken bones.

According to the Salt Lake County Sheriff Search and Rescue, this was the 17th mission since January. The  majority of reports, though, have happened in May.

“Probably among our most common (calls) are minor injuries or overdue people,” said Sgt. Spencer Cannon with the Utah County Sheriff’s Office. “They get hiking in an area where they don’t have phone reception. They underestimate how long their activity is going to take them.”

He said people have often have a tendency to overestimate their abilities in the wilderness.

Hikers are advised to plan well and bring extra clothes and an adequate supply of food and water. Cannon said people should always alert other to where they’ll be and how long they expect to be gone.