Texas DPS Aircraft Rescues Family in Guadalupe Mountains

What started as a simple outdoor adventure for a young family of three in Guadalupe Mountains National Park quickly escalated into a high-stakes rescue operation. On August 20, a 23-year-old couple, along with their three-month-old baby, set out to conquer Guadalupe Peak, unaware that the scorching Texas sun had other plans.

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After a challenging nine-mile trek, the family found themselves out of water and battling dehydration and heat exhaustion. With the afternoon sun still blazing, their situation grew increasingly dire. Fortunately, park rangers were on alert and contacted the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Aircraft Operations Division (AOD) for assistance.

Hoist Rescue Necessary

DPS wasted no time deploying a Pilatus PC-12 airplane to locate the distressed hikers. Once their location was confirmed, an Airbus H-125 helicopter swooped in, and a Tactical Flight Officer (TFO) was lowered to assess the family’s condition. Determining that a hoist rescue was necessary, the TFO carefully lifted each family member into the helicopter and transported them to safety.

Expertise

The DPS Aircraft Operations Division, one of the largest airborne law enforcement units in the country, showcased its expertise in this dramatic rescue. With cutting-edge technology, a fleet of aircraft, and a dedicated team, the AOD ensures that no corner of Texas is too remote or too dangerous for a rescue.

Happy Ending

This family’s hike may have taken an unexpected turn, but thanks to DPS’s quick response, they were brought down the mountain safely, proving that even in the most perilous situations, help is never too far away.

Check out the video below: