East Bakersfield, United States - August 11, 2025 On August 11, 2025, the Tulare County Sheriff Office’s Emergency Services Division received a report of a missing man last seen at the top of the “Seven Teacups” waterfalls near the North Fork of the Kern River. Deputies learned 46-year-old Ryan Wardwell of Long Beach had planned to rappel the waterfalls but failed to return to his car Sunday night. TCSO units launched an extensive search using aircraft equipped with cameras and infrared technology, pinpointing Wardwell’s possible location. Due to darkness and the treacherous terrain, a rescue plan was set for first light the following morning. Early Tuesday morning, August 12, the TCSO Swiftwater-Dive Rescue Team and Search and Rescue teams moved into the area. A drone checked behind a massive waterfall, where Wardwell was found alive and responsive. He told deputies he had slipped off his rappel lines and became trapped by the violent hydraulics of the river. California Highway Patrol Helicopter H-40 joined the daring operation. A TCSO rescue team member was lowered into the waterfall, secured Wardwell, and executed a hoist extraction. Wardwell was flown to a nearby landing zone and treated for minor injuries and dehydration before being reunited with family members on scene. The TCSO Emergency Services Division reminded the public to remain vigilant of their environment and abilities, especially near white water rivers: “Stay Safe, Stay Smart and Stay Alive.”