Swiftwater Rescue / Motor Vehicle Accident
May 25, 2007
Merced River, Crane Creek Confluence - El Portal
Cries for help were heard at 10:30pm from the Merced River near the Crane Creek confluence (Highway 140, south of Yosemite View Lodge). A vehicle was partially submerged in swift moving water with one occupant stranded on top of the vehicle. Units from Yosemite National Park, Mariposa County Sheriff, and the California Highway Patrol responded. The swiftwater team was able to use a rescuer with a tethered rescue board to safely bring the driver of the vehicle to shore. The vehicle sank shortly after the subject was extricated.
A YOSAR swiftwater rescuer prepares to evacuate the stranded driver on a tethered rescue board. NPS Photo.
Emergency response vehicles and personnel at the scene. NPS Photo.