JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. — An injured rafter was rescued by a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter Monday evening after suffering a severe leg injury in the remote Wild and Scenic section of the Rogue River west of Galice.
According to the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, 9-1-1 dispatchers received a report of the injured rafter at approximately 4:57 p.m. on July 20. Because the area has no cellular service, the emergency was reported via text message using a Garmin GPS communication device.
Authorities said the remote location made it unlikely that search and rescue personnel or other rescuers could reach the victim by land or river in a timely manner. The sheriff’s office coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard in North Bend, which launched a rescue helicopter to assist.
The helicopter crew was able to land near the injured rafter, provide initial medical care, and airlift the patient to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment. The extent of the person’s injuries and current condition were not released.
The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office thanked the U.S. Coast Guard for its partnership and rapid response, noting that the collaboration is critical during emergencies in remote areas of Southern Oregon.
Officials also reminded those planning to raft or recreate on the Rogue River to be prepared for medical emergencies by carrying alternative communication devices, such as satellite messengers, in areas without cell service. They also encourage visitors to share their planned route and expected return time with a trusted friend or family member before heading out.
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