On February 26, 2023, at 9:48 am, Gallatin County dispatch received a call from Madison County Sheriff’s Office requesting assistance for a rescue mission in the area of Circle Mountain for an individual who had fallen ill and was too exhausted to self-extricate.  Madison County had communication with the individual and was able to pass on coordinates and valuable information to Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue Big Sky Section, SAR Comms and Heli Team members responded to assist in getting the patient to medical care. Ground teams rode up Buck Ridge while the Heli Team flew directly to the area. The Heli Team was able to locate the patient, pick them up, and fly to a waiting Madison County Deputy for further assistance.

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind winter recreationalist to travel with others when possible and be prepared for unexpected events when recreating. He also encourages recreationalists to have a fully charged cell phone or some other communication device in case of an emergency as the patient did in this case.

Photos courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.