23-Year-Old Hiker Rescued From Big Slide Mountain After Becoming Seriously ill

KEENE, NY — New York State Forest Rangers rescued a 23-year-old hiker from the summit of Big Slide Mountain in Essex County after the individual became ill and was unable to continue moving.

According to officials, Ray Brook Dispatch received a call on October 3 at approximately 4:30 p.m. reporting a hiker who was vomiting, shaking, experiencing difficulty breathing, and unable to move.

New York State Police pilot Engel responded by helicopter, transporting Forest Rangers Curcio and Ezumah to the mountain to reach the stranded hiker.

Once at the scene, Ranger Curcio lowered Ranger Ezumah to the 23-year-old hiker. Ranger Ezumah then secured the individual in a harness while Ranger Curcio successfully hoisted the patient into the helicopter.

The pilot transported the hiker and both Forest Rangers to Lake Placid Airport, where a Lake Placid ambulance was waiting to provide further assistance.

Officials reported that the rescue operation was completed at approximately 6:10 p.m., about one hour and 40 minutes after the initial call.

The incident highlights the challenges emergency crews can face when responding to medical emergencies in remote mountain locations, where reaching an injured or ill hiker on foot may be difficult.