“It was a pretty big fall. He’s not responding to us or anything,” a 911 caller told dispatchers.
Authorities and rescue crews were dispatched to the state park for a person who fell down a cliff while hiking with friends just after 9 p.m. Sunday.
EARLIER: Hiker rescued, airlifted to hospital after cliff fall
During the search, it took more time than usual to find Willhelm’s exact location because he was not familiar with the area, there was heavy brush and it was dark, rescue crews said.
Once he was located, it took about an hour as crews used a rope rescue to extricate him from the wooded area of the cliff where he fell, said Lt. Alex Wendt with Miami Twp. Fire Rescue.
“We have people go off trail, need rescued and sometimes rope rescued,” said Lt. Travis Martin, ODNR division of parks and watercraft.
He sustained severe injuries, according to an incident report. the injury could possibly be a head injury due to the fall, which prompted the medical helicopter to be called to the scene.
Willhelm is in critical condition, Martin said.
MORE: Yellow Springs seeks to lower voting age to 16
The other two hikers —described in their teens or 20s —were not injured in the incident.
“We definitely encourage people to use our wilderness areas — John Bryan, Clifton Gorge and Glenn Helen here in our township - and just make sure you stay on designated trails,” said Wendt.
“Let someone know of your plans and your expected return, drink plenty of water and mind your safety on the trails.”
HIKING TIPS
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources issue advice when hiking in Ohio parks:
— Find a map, especially if you are not familiar with the area.
— Obey and follow the rules, especially after hours.
— Rules and maps are readily available at all State Parks at trail heads and entrances.
— Get off the trails when it begins to become darker outside because the combination of tree cover and sun setting, it will make it harder for hikers to see trails, cliffs and other hazards.
About the Author