Injured Hiker, Hawaii Firefighters Airlifted From Trail

May 9, 2012
Firefighters were summoned after the 23-year-old man reportedly fell and hit his head while hiking near the falls.

A California man who fell while hiking the Hanakapiai Trail on Monday -- and the four Kauai firefighters who rescued him -- were airlifted from the area early this morning after spending the night in the valley.

Firefighters were summoned about 7 p.m. Monday night after the 23-year-old man reportedly fell and hit his head while hiking near the falls.

The fire rescue helicopter had only enough time to drop two Rescue 3 specialists into the valley before nightfall forced the aircraft to head back. Two firefighters from the Hanalei station also hiked in from the trailhead to assist.

The four rescuers provided aid to the victim and stayed with him overnight until the helicopter could return to the scene this morning.

The victim was airlifted to Princeville Airport, where awaiting medics transported him to Wilcox Hospital. His current condition was not available.

Copyright 2012 - The Honolulu Star-Advertiser

McClatchy_tribune News Service

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