Oregon Guard Sends Helicopter to Mount Hood Rescue

An Oregon Guard helicopter heads to the rescue scene on Mount Hood.

Oregon Guard Blackhawk in flight Photo by Tim King Salem-News.com

(SALEM, Oregon) - The Oregon Army National Guard is be launching a Blackhawk Helicopter to make a mountain extraction of a climber who has suffered a head injury on Mt. Hood.

Kay Fristad with the Oregon Guard says he is one of two climbers who had been on the mountain. The second climber is making his way down the mountain.

The Blackhawk helicopter from the Oregon Army National Guard, based in Salem, Oregon, is expected to launch around 4:20 PM.

Lt. Matt Ellington with the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, is the SAR Commander on Mount Hood. He will coordinate with the crew of the 1042nd helicopter that has the potential of providing air lift of the injured climber from Mount Hood.

The team deployed to assist the injured party near Hogs Back, situated at the 10,600' level, on the south face of Mount Hood, expected to reach the injured party and render aid at approximately 3:45 PM.