A Canyonville couple was rescued by Douglas County Search and Rescue near Cultus Lake on Tuesday.
Sergeant Brad O’Dell of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said they received a call from 33-year old Brad Barron who told dispatchers that he and his wife were stranded in the snow near the lake and were in need of rescue.
O’Dell said deputies learned that Barron and his wife had left their residence and drove to Cultus Lake on Monday. While there, they began to experience vehicle problems and ended up staying for the night. While there, a large amount of snow fell, which added to the complications of their trip.
Barron had walked several miles in the snow until he was able to obtain cell service and summon assistance.
O’Dell said Search and Rescue sent its snowcat and a tracked side-by-side. It took them approximately nine hours to reach the stranded subjects due to the significant amount of snow and several downed trees that were blocking the roadway. When rescue crews arrived, both Barron and his wife were cold, but otherwise in good condition. No medical assistance was required. O’Dell said Search and Rescue were able to rescue the couple from the snow and took them to waiting family members.
O’Dell said the equipment used in this rescue was made possible by the efforts and support of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners. O’Dell said “this equipment proved to be invaluable in this rescue”. He said DCSO wanted to thank the Commissioners for their support of SAR and their mission.
O’Dell said the incident is a good reminder to be prepared when venturing outdoors.