A coordinated response by multiple agencies led to the safe rescue of a 75-year-old hiker who became lost Friday afternoon, Sept. 11, in the Kisatchie National Forest, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.
At approximately 3:37 p.m., Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s deputies equipped with all-terrain vehicles, along with members of Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #4 and their all-terrain equipment, were dispatched by the NATCOM 911 Center to a report of a lost hiker in a wooded area off Sheard Road near the Longleaf Trail in the Kisatchie National Forest in Natchitoches Parish.
Deputies learned the hiker was approximately 75 years old and had an existing medical condition. Temperatures in the area were approximately 96 degrees, creating additional concern for the hiker’s health and safety.
NATCOM 911 Center telecommunications specialists obtained information that helped identify an approximate location of the hiker.
A Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office drone was placed on standby to assist with aerial search efforts if needed.
Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #1 and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS also responded to the area to assist.
Search efforts began after responding personnel obtained a clothing description, identifying information and medical history of the hiker.
At approximately 4:35 p.m., members of the Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #4 Search Team located the hiker in good condition.
The hiker was transported out of the wooded area and brought to a waiting NRMC EMS unit, where he was medically assessed and released without the need for transport to a hospital.
Sheriff Stuart Wright thanked all agencies and personnel involved in the successful search and rescue.
“This was an excellent example of teamwork and cooperation among our first responders,” Sheriff Wright said. “We are extremely thankful this gentleman was located safely, especially considering the high temperatures and his medical condition. I want to thank our deputies, NATCOM 911 telecommunications specialists, Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection Districts #1 and #4, NRMC EMS and everyone involved in this response. Their quick actions, communication and coordination helped bring this incident to a successful conclusion.”
Sheriff Wright also reminded residents and visitors to use caution when hiking or participating in outdoor activities, particularly during periods of extreme heat.