Burke County -- August 31, 2026: A multi-agency emergency operation unfolded in the Linville Gorge after a climber sustained serious injuries during a technical ascent on Shortoff Mountain. Burke Rescue, Burke EMS, and state aerial assets coordinated across rugged terrain to deliver life-saving care and execute a high-angle aerial extraction.
The Incident on Dopey Duck
The accident occurred around 9:30 AM while a climbing party was ascending "Dopey Duck," a 350-foot, 3-pitch traditional route rated 5.9.
The lead climber had climbed roughly 40 feet above a ledge and was attempting to place protection gear.
The climber took a 15-to-20-foot lead fall, swinging out from the face and striking an adjacent rock pillar.
The impact resulted in severe traumatic injuries in a highly inaccessible section of the gorge.
Rapid Response and High-Angle Care
First responders, including a Burke Rescue Paramedic/RN, an EMT/Mountain Rescue Technician, and a Burke EMS Paramedic, reached the scene and established voice contact with the group. Rescuers immediately rigged ropes and rappelled directly to the injured climber to begin emergency medical treatment.
Due to the severity of the trauma, the medical team requested whole blood. In an extraordinary physical effort, a Burke Rescue volunteer sprinted roughly 1.5 miles—gaining 1,000 feet of elevation in just 31 minutes—to deliver the blood supply directly to the patient for stabilization.
Aerial Extraction by NCHART
Recognizing the complex vertical terrain, command requested the North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART).
Ground crews prepared and cleared a designated pick-off zone along the cliffside.
NCHART aircraft "Kill Devil 244" arrived on scene and hoisted the patient from the wall at approximately 2:45 PM.
The climber was transferred directly to an awaiting medical helicopter for transport to a regional trauma center.
Ground teams and the climbing party then ascended the rope systems to the rim and completed the hike out.
A Reminder on Backcountry Safety
Officials emphasized that technical rock climbing carries inherent risks and urged outdoor enthusiasts to know their personal limits, maintain safety systems, and plan for backcountry emergencies. The mission required the coordination of 24 responding agencies, highlighting the inter-agency collaboration needed for technical rescues in the Southern Appalachians.
Image: Burke County Rescue