This footage was filmed and produced 30 March 2024.

In a daring afternoon rescue operation, the Ventura County Aviation Unit sprang into action to save multiple groups of stranded hikers and their canine companions from the treacherous Sespe River Trail in the Los Padres National Forest. The harrowing event unfolded on March 30, 2024, between the hours of 1300 to 1700, as inclement weather wreaked havoc on the trail, leaving 11 adults from Ventura County and three dogs in perilous conditions.

Following a weekend storm that swept through the region, the Sespe River swelled rapidly, trapping hikers amidst rising waters and harsh terrain. Ground units from the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Department found themselves unable to navigate the hazardous conditions to reach the stranded groups safely. In response, the Ventura County Aviation Unit dispatched two rescue helicopters to the remote area.

Among the deployed aircraft were Copter 9, a Bell 412-EPX helicopter outfitted with a rescue hoist and seating for 10 passengers, including a paramedic, crew chiefs, and pilot; and Copter 4, a Fire Hawk firefighting and rescue helicopter equipped with a rescue hoist and seating for 14 passengers, piloted by two crew chiefs and a pilot.

This year, Ventura County and much of Southern California have experienced an uptick in storms and rainfall, leading to unpredictable water conditions and flash flooding in wilderness areas. Consequently, rescue operations have surged in the region, underscoring the importance of vigilance among outdoor enthusiasts. While both the Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office boast highly trained response teams, authorities urge individuals to monitor weather forecasts closely and heed safety advisories issued by public safety agencies to prevent similar emergencies.

The Ventura County Aviation Unit, a collaborative effort between the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the Ventura County Fire Department, stands as a testament to interagency cooperation in emergency response. Manned by a team of skilled firefighters and deputy sheriffs, the unit operates year-round, providing vital support for firefighting, search and rescue missions, medical emergencies, and law enforcement operations across Ventura County. Regardless of jurisdiction, the Aviation Unit remains committed to safeguarding the lives of residents and visitors traversing the diverse landscapes of Ventura County.