LCSO Rescues Pair After Vehicle Stuck in the Snow for 2 Days
The Larimer County Sheriff's Office helped to rescue a man and woman on Tuesday after their vehicle became stuck in the snow.
They had been stranded since Sunday, January 26.
The LCSO was first made aware about the situation around 11:20 a.m. on Jan. 28. They were told that a man and woman had gotten stuck while driving their pickup truck somewhere along County Road 80C on Sunday. It had also been reported that the man had left the truck early Monday afternoon to try and get help, but never returned.
Dispatchers were unable to successfully track the cell phone coordinates for the pair, which prompted a search in the area of County Road 80C. Along with deputies canvassing the roadway, LCSO Emergency Services used a snowcat to search the surrounding area, and a UCHealth Lifeline helicopter was also requested to assist.
The Lifeline helicopter was able to locate the pickup truck at 1:45 p.m. It was found on County Road 80C, east of Eaton Reservoir, with the woman inside. The snowcat was eventually able to get to her at 5 p.m. and LCSO Emergency Services personnel made sure she was able to make it home safely.
At 2:45 pm., the helicopter located the man about two miles southwest of Iron Mountain, on County Road 80C. The man was hypothermic and was transported by air to a local hospital for necessary treatment.
Following this incident, the Larimer County Sheriff's Office encourages everyone to make sure they are prepared before heading out on a hike. This includes letting someone know where you're going and when you plan on returning, as well as bringing the appropriate clothing for the conditions. It's also a smart idea to take enough food and water for at least 24 hours.
When driving in the snow, four-wheel drive, winter tires, and tire chains are needed, especially on roads that are not maintained. If you are stuck, lost, or injured and have cell service, call 911 first. If your call will not go through, try texting 911.