Wasco County, OR – Earlier this month, Oregon State Police’s Tactical Rope Team completed a high-risk recovery operation to retrieve a drone perched on a cliff above Interstate 84 at Rowena Crest, averting what could have become a dangerous roadside incident.
According to the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, the drone’s operator contacted local authorities after realizing the device was stuck above the highway and could dislodge, potentially falling onto passing vehicles. The area, known for frequent rockfalls, has a documented history of debris-related crashes.
At the sheriff’s request, OSP’s specialized rope team was deployed. The recovery required three technical descents west of the drone’s position, where troopers navigated steep cliffs and unstable, moss-covered rocks. Once reaching the device, the team proceeded on foot to safely remove it.
OSP officials said the operation not only eliminated a possible highway hazard but also provided valuable real-world training for its rope rescue specialists, who are certified in internationally recognized techniques.
The drone operator expressed relief after the recovery, saying, “I’m so relieved my drone won’t be perched up there waiting to drop on an unsuspecting driver.”
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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