A Claremont man required a hoist rescue after becoming trapped on a rock face of a waterfall in the Newberry Mountains on New Years Eve.
Gaven Johanesen and his father were searching for rocks and minerals when he attempted to climb a dry waterfall, which was around 200 feet tall. At around 2:10 p.m. Johanesen became stuck on the rock face of the waterfall and was not able to safely move. His father called 911 for help. The crew of 40King4 arrived at the location and determined that a pick-off hoist was necessary due to his position on the rock face.
Johansen was around 125 feet below the hovering helicopter were one of the flight crew was lowered down to him on the small ledge. Johansen was secured with the rescue harness around his body but before the leg straps could be secured, he slid from the rock. The flight crew was able to lift him back into a position where he could secure footing and stand. He was then secured into the additional harnesses and lifted into the helicopter.
Johanesen was not injured as a result of the incident.
