San Diego emergency crews successfully rescued a man on Sunday night who had been stranded in a Rose Canyon-area ravine for more than two days after a fall left him injured and unable to climb out, authorities said Monday.
The man reportedly fell down a steep embankment on Friday morning while trying to navigate through heavy brush near the intersection of Interstate 5 and State Route 52 in University City. The exact circumstances of his fall remain unclear, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.
A Cry for Help Heard
For more than 48 hours, the man remained trapped, his calls for help unheard until a passerby happened to walk by the area on Sunday evening. Hearing the man’s cries, the passerby alerted emergency services at approximately 9 p.m.
Firefighters quickly responded, facing challenging conditions as they worked to reach the man. Chainsaws and other tools were used to clear dense vegetation, and ladders were deployed to navigate ravines and drop-offs.
90-Minute Rescue Effort
After about 90 minutes of labor-intensive work, rescue teams reached the man, assessed his condition, and coordinated his evacuation. A helicopter was brought in to airlift him to a hospital for treatment.
The man’s injuries and current condition have not yet been disclosed.
A Reminder of Hidden Dangers
Rose Canyon, known for its rugged terrain and dense vegetation, can be perilous for those unfamiliar with its geography. Authorities reminded residents and visitors to exercise caution when navigating areas with heavy brush or steep embankments.
The identity of the man has not been released, and no further details about the incident were immediately available. However, emergency responders praised the efforts of the passerby whose attentiveness led to the man’s rescue.
