There are so many beautiful sights to behold in California’s Angeles National Forest during the winter. That being said, navigating the often hazardous conditions can be tricky. This is something that a California woman learns during a recent visit. On a Wednesday evening, the woman crosses the path of a deer. In trying to avoid it, she swerves off the road, plummeting 200 feet off of a cliff, prompting a rescue mission.
Unfortunately, though, this rescue mission takes days. Without cell phone service or a way to get out of the car, she’s forced to do whatever she can to survive, all the while hoping that someone will come to her rescue ASAP.
For five days and four nights, this frightened woman stays trapped in her car. Then, miraculously, a group of hikers spot her vehicle. They contact first responders who quickly make their way to the malnourished, injured woman.
California Cliff Rescue Nearly Fatal
“Most of the time they don’t survive because it’s pretty steep terrain,” Los Angeles County Fire Department Captain Ian Thrall says. “She’s pretty lucky.”
Last we heard, the woman remains in the Pomona Valley Hospital Medica Center where she’s recovering. This nearly fatal accident is prompting folks like Matt Brossard, Engine Captain of the U.S. Forest Service, to remind folks of the dangers of traveling on mountain roads, especially in winter.
“Driving too fast for your current conditions and not being familiar with the roadway is a big factor in a lot of the accidents,” Matt says. “But her surviving it, not only just the accident, but also the elements is a new year’s miracle.”
We wish this California woman a speedy recovery — and a big thanks to the hikers, first responders, and other folk who aided in her rescue!
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