A dramatic cave rescue in upstate New York ended safely after forest rangers freed a hiker who had been trapped in a narrow rock crevice for nearly six hours.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the unidentified man from Brooklyn became stuck while exploring Merlin’s Cave in the town of Canaan on May 17 with a group of friends.
Hiker Trapped 400 Feet Inside Cave
Officials said the man slipped into a tight crevice roughly 400 feet from the cave entrance and became completely immobilized. His friends attempted to pull him free before rescuers arrived, but the cold, damp cave conditions caused several people to develop hypothermia.
Forest Ranger Lt. John Gullen described the situation as one of the most difficult rescues he has encountered.
“He was really jammed in there more than I expected,” Gullen said in a video shared by the department. “It was basically the exact shape of him.”
Rescue Crew Used Rock Drill to Free Man
Rescuers carefully used a rock drill to chip away stone only inches from the man’s body and head. After hours of work, the hiker was finally able to wiggle himself free.
Despite the dangerous situation, Gullen said the trapped man stayed calm and positive throughout the ordeal.
“We were telling jokes, and he was giving thumbs up,” the ranger recalled.
Man Walks Out Safely
Once freed and warmed up, the hiker was able to walk out of the cave on his own, officials said.
Gullen called the emotional moment unforgettable, saying the rescue team celebrated with high-fives after finally reaching the man.
For more uncanny survivor stories, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.