United States - January 11, 2026 A high-risk rescue was successfully carried out by the Orange County Fire Authority’s Air Operations team after a victim suffered a serious fall at Black Star Falls. Facing extreme wind conditions, a skilled pilot maneuvered a new FIREHAWK helicopter to lower two rescue medics into position. The pilot maintained a steady hover despite the challenging conditions, enabling the safe hoist of both the medic and the patient. While airborne, the crew provided critical, lifesaving medical care to the patient, who was in critical condition. The patient was then transported safely to a local trauma center. OCFA emphasized that skill, precision, and grit were essential to the operation, highlighting the teamwork and expertise required to execute such a dangerous mission successfully.