Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Staff Reports

Forest Falls – On Tues., Aug. 25, hiker Alexis Lopez was climbing at Big Falls, in Forest Falls, when he fell approximately 15 feet, hitting his face on the rocks.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Sheriff’s Air Rescue 306, manned by Pilot Corporal Mike Gilley, Crew Chief Deputy Paul Kowalski, SBCFD Captain Jack DeJong, and SBCFD Firefighter/ Paramedic Eric Sherwin, were dispatched to assist with Lopez’ rescue.

Kowalski lowered Sherwin via hoist to access Lopez. Due to the extent of Lopez’ injuries, and the remote location of his fall, the crew determined a hoist rescue was necessary.

Lopez was hoisted 120′ out of the falls and then transported in stable condition to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.