West Milford, United States - August 28, 2024

In a dramatic display of bravery and skill, the New Jersey State Police Aviation North Unit, in collaboration with the T.E.A.M.S. North Unit, conducted a life-saving rescue operation on the afternoon of August 28, 2024. The mission unfolded in the rugged terrains of West Milford, where a cliff-diving incident turned perilous, leaving one individual with critical injuries.

The rescue was anything but routine. The victim, stranded in an area inaccessible by traditional means due to its remote location and the challenging weather conditions, required an immediate and sophisticated response. Enter the elite team of pilots Tpr. I. Keith Pronko and SFC. Sam Mantle, along with Sgt. Evan Curtiss as the hoist operator, and rescuers Tpr. Domenick Cagnole and Tpr. Juan Giglio. Together, they embarked on what would be a testament to their training and teamwork.

Navigating through adverse weather, the crew executed a high-risk extraction with precision. The operation involved hovering above treacherous cliffs and using a hoist to safely retrieve the injured party. This was no small feat; the terrain and elements posed significant risks, not just to the victim but to the rescuers as well.

The injured individual was successfully transported to Morristown Trauma Center, where they are receiving treatment for their injuries. The details of the victim's condition have not been disclosed, but the successful rescue has been hailed as a critical intervention.