Tucson, AZ – A 36-year-old Tucson man was rescued Tuesday morning after suffering critical injuries while hiking a rugged trail northeast of Tucson, prompting a coordinated air rescue involving multiple Southern Arizona agencies.
According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), the call came in around 8:30 a.m. reporting an injured hiker on the Pontoac Ridge Trail, located in neighboring Pima County. Due to the remote and steep terrain, ground access was limited, requiring an aerial response.
PCSO Search and Rescue deputies and the department’s Aviation Unit responded alongside members of the Southern Arizona Rescue Association. Rescue personnel hiked to reach the man, who was found injured and unable to leave the trail on his own.
Officials said PCSO Helicopter Air 2 conducted a hoist rescue, lifting the hiker from the trail and transporting him to a nearby school in Pima County. There, he was transferred to waiting ground paramedics for further medical care.
The man was taken to a local hospital, where authorities said he was listed in stable condition later Wednesday. No additional details were released regarding how the injuries occurred.
The Pontoac Ridge Trail is known for steep elevation changes and challenging conditions, particularly during warmer months. Search and rescue officials routinely remind hikers to carry adequate water, inform others of their plans, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions in Southern Arizona’s desert and mountain terrain.
Authorities did not say whether the hiker was alone at the time of the incident.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
