The operation began late Sunday evening and continued through the night in challenging mountain terrain. Responders coordinated ground teams from South Toe Fire and Rescue and aerial support to reach the injured hiker safely. A NC Highway patrol helicopter which is part of North Carolina Emergency Management Helo Aquatic Rescue Team (NCHART) carried out the mission successfully this morning, ensuring the hiker received prompt medical care.
Agencies involved in the mission included:
• Yancey County Sheriff’s Office
• South Toe Volunteer Fire Department
• Yancey County EMS
• Yancey County Emergency Management
• Yancey County Rescue Squad
• Pensacola Fire Department
• North Carolina Highway Patrol
- US Forest Service
• NC Emergency Management
Sheriff Shane Hilliard praised the cooperation and dedication of all agencies:
“This was a true team effort. Our responders worked through the night in dangerous conditions to bring this hiker to safety. We are grateful for the professionalism and determination of every agency involved.”