A Los Angeles Fire Department helicopter crew rescued a man stranded in a river yesterday, according to a department statement.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:51 a.m. by the 1st Street Bridge near Boyle Heights. Over 60 firefighters were searching for a 54-year-old man wearing dark colored clothing who was swept away.
Heavy rain caused flood control channels to swell with storm water and the department was ready in "River Rescue" status.
It took about 20 minutes for the man to be rescued near Bandini Boulevard and Washington Boulevard. A firefighter was lowered out of a department helicopter into the water and grabbed hold of him before both were lifted up.
The man received medical aid and was transported to County USC hospital in stable condition.
