Injured bicyclist rescued at Buttermilk Mountain
An injured bicyclist was successfully evacuated by a mountain rescue team at Buttermilk Mountain on Sunday evening, a Pitkin County alert states.
The Pitkin County Regional Emergency Dispatch Center received a distress call of the injured biker, who had fallen, shortly after 5:33 p.m. Sunday. The call was made by the cyclist’s riding partner, who managed to provide their precise location in the Sugar Bowl area, just west of Buttermilk Mountain.
The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office mobilized Mountain Rescue Aspen to assist in the rescue operation.
“By 6:10 p.m., rescue teams had been deployed into the field, racing against the clock to reach the injured cyclist,” the alert states. “At approximately 7 p.m., the rescue team made contact with the injured individual, assessing the situation and preparing for further medical intervention.”
Recognizing the severity of the cyclist’s injuries, CareFlight was dispatched to the scene shortly after the rescue team arrived. The airborne medical team reached the cyclist at around 8:06 p.m. and immediately transported them to Aspen Valley Hospital for advanced medical care, the alert states. By 9:09 p.m., all Mountain Rescue Aspen members had safely exited the field, concluding the rescue operation.
“The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office extended heartfelt thanks to CareFlight of the Rockies and Mountain Rescue Aspen for their dedication and swift response,” the alert states. “This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks of backcountry activities and the vital importance of preparedness.”
Visitors to the backcountry are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for potential emergencies. The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office and Mountain Rescue Aspen emphasize that rescuing in remote areas can be time-consuming and challenging, the alert states. They encourage backcountry adventurers to ensure they have reliable means of communication and basic first aid skills, which can be crucial during emergencies while waiting for professional help.
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Emily Ford, the city’s communication specialist said that crews are in the field, actively working through the problem.