DATE: January 23, 2022
INCIDENT: Search and Rescue
LOCATION: Black Rock Canyon, Yucca Valley, CA
VICTIM(S): Roberta Totten, 56-year-old resident of Riverside County
SUMMARY: On Saturday, January 23, 2022, personnel with the San Bernardino County Fire Department requested the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit to assist with locating Roberta Totten, a 56-year-old female resident of Riverside County. It was reported Totten fell while riding a horse in the Black Rock Canyon area and needed medical assistance. Deputies from the Yucca Valley Sheriff Station responded to assist. Sheriff’s Rescue Helicopter, Air Rescue 306, also responded to the area to assist with locating Totten. The severity of Totten’s injuries were unknown at the time. Air Rescue 306 conducted an extensive area check for Totten and located her with the assistance of personnel with the San Bernardino County Fire Department. The crew of Air Rescue 306 determined a hoist rescue was needed due to the steep rocky terrain and to get Totten expedited medical treatment.
Pilot Deputy Doug Brimmer positioned the helicopter above Totten. Crew Chief Deputy Tommy Dickey used the hoist to lower Air Medic Stacey Price and Reserve Deputy Steve Miller down to Totten. The Air Medics assessed Totten for injuries, secured her in a Stokes Basket, and had her hoisted back up to the helicopter. Due to the severity of Totten’s injuries, she was transported by Air Rescue 306 to Desert Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Refer: Deputy N. Hospodar / Deputy T. Dickey
Station: Yucca Valley Station / Emergency Operations Division
Phone No. 760-366-4180
Case No. 232200142
Dan OBrien
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