A multi-agency response was conducted after a dirt bike crash with injuries in the Kisatchie National Forest near the Lotus Camp area, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 6 p.m., Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #4, Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #1 with its Emergency Response UTV, and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS responded after being dispatched by the NATCOM 911 Center.
Emergency responders located the dirt bike operator suffering from injuries believed to be non-life-threatening.
Due to the remote location of the crash, Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #1 utilized its Emergency Response UTV to safely access the scene and extricate the injured rider from the wooded trail to an awaiting EMS unit.
Deputies said a 26-year-old Silsbee, Texas man and a friend were riding dirt bikes on a trail in the Lotus Camp area when the operator apparently lost control of his dirt bike, causing him to be ejected.
The second rider immediately contacted 911 to request emergency assistance.
The injured rider, who was wearing a DOT-approved safety helmet at the time of the crash, was transported by EMS to a regional trauma center for treatment.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office thanked Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #4, Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #1 and personnel operating the Emergency Response UTV for their rapid response and assistance in safely removing the patient from the remote wooded area.
The Sheriff’s Office reminded off-road vehicle operators to wear appropriate safety gear, ride within their skill level and never ride alone whenever possible. Riders were also encouraged to carry a charged cell phone or emergency communication device when riding in remote areas where emergency access may be limited.
Sheriff Stuart Wright commended all responding agencies for their professionalism, teamwork and commitment to providing emergency assistance in challenging terrain.
Deputy A. Middleton responded on behalf of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.