Pinal County, AZ – Search and Rescue crews were busy Saturday, Jan. 31, responding to three separate emergencies across Pinal County, according to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO).
Teams first responded to the Picketpost Mountain Trail near Superior, where an injured hiker was airlifted by Air 2. Later, rescuers were called to Picacho Peak to assist another injured hiker. In both cases, a BORSTAR paramedic was lowered to treat the hikers on-site before they were safely removed from the trails.
According to PCSO, a third mission began later in the day when deputies and Air 2 assisted in locating a lost ATV rider stranded near Cochran and the Florence-Kelvin Highway. The rider was eventually found safe.
Officials credited the successful outcomes to the collaboration between PCSO’s Search and Rescue team, Air 2 crew, and volunteer members of the Search and Rescue Posse. “These missions would not be possible without them,” the sheriff’s office stated in its post.
Pinal County’s rugged terrain often leads to challenging rescues, especially during winter months when hikers and off-roaders are drawn to the region’s trails. Officials continue to remind visitors to plan ahead, stay hydrated, and carry GPS or communication devices when exploring remote desert areas.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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