Miraculous Rescue: Man Trapped Behind Waterfall in Northern California Saved After Two Days
A man from Long Beach was rescued after being trapped behind a waterfall in Northern California for two days. The Tulare County Sheriff's Office received a report about 46-year-old Ryan Wardwell, who was last seen near the "Seven Teacups" waterfalls on the North Fork of the Kern River on August 10. A search operation was initiated by the Sheriff's Department when Wardwell did not return to his car on Sunday evening. They utilized aircraft with cameras and infrared technology to locate him. The search continued on Tuesday with the assistance of the TCSO Swiftwater-Dive Rescue Team and Search and Rescue teams. Wardwell was found alive and responsive behind a large waterfall using a drone. A helicopter from the California Highway Patrol was also involved in the search and successfully extracted Wardwell with the help of a TCSO rescue team member. Wardwell explained that he had fallen off his rappel lines and became trapped behind the waterfall due to the strong river currents. After being rescued, Wardwell was treated for minor injuries and dehydration before reuniting with his family. The TCSO Emergency Services Division advises the public to be cautious of their surroundings and abilities, especially when navigating white water rivers.