Alaska Man Survives Being Pinned by 700-Pound Boulder After Harrowing Glacier Hike
Seward, Alaska – In a remarkable tale of survival, an Alaska man lived to tell the tale after being pinned underneath a massive 700-pound boulder for three agonizing hours. The incident occurred during a hike near Godwin Glacier, south of Anchorage. Quick thinking from his wife and a series of fortunate events contributed to his miraculous escape with only minor injuries.
Heroic Rescue saves Hiker Pinned by Boulder
Kell Morris, 61, found himself in a life-threatening situation when a cascade of boulders trapped him face down in an icy creek. His wife, Jo Roop, a retired Alaska State Trooper, immediately sprang into action, holding his head above the frigid water to prevent him from drowning.
Roop’s law enforcement background proved invaluable as she navigated the remote terrain to find a cell signal and provide precise GPS coordinates to 911 dispatchers. this action was crucial in expediting the arrival of rescue teams.
A Stroke of Luck: Timely Helicopter Intervention
Adding to the fortunate turn of events, a nearby sled dog tourism company overheard the emergency dispatch and offered their helicopter to transport rescuers to the otherwise inaccessible location. This dramatically cut down the response time.
Firefighters arriving via helicopter faced a daunting task. It took seven men, utilizing inflatable air bags typically used for vehicle extrication, to finally lift the massive boulder enough to free Morris. He was then airlifted to a local hospital by an Alaska National Guard helicopter.
Details of the Dramatic Ordeal
The incident unfolded last Saturday as Morris and his wife, seeking to avoid holiday crowds, chose to hike near Godwin Glacier on an undeveloped trail behind a state prison. This trail, essentially a rocky creek bed, was lined with potentially dangerous boulders.
Morris recounted how the ground suddenly gave way beneath him, sending him tumbling down an embankment where he was struck by the 700-pound boulder. Rocks beneath and around him partially cushioned the blow, preventing him from being crushed fully.
| Role | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Jo Roop | Held Morris’ head above water, obtained help and provided GPS coordinates. |
| Sled Dog Tourism Company | Provided helicopter transport for rescuers. |
| Firefighters | Lifted the boulder and extracted Morris. |
| Alaska National Guard | Airlifted Morris to the hospital. |
Gratitude and a Change of Plans
After spending two nights in the hospital for observation, Morris was released with minor injuries, a fact that amazed Seward Fire Chief Clinton Crites, who admitted he “fully anticipated a body recovery.”
Morris, reflecting on his near-death experience, expressed immense gratitude and a newfound commitment to sticking to established trails in the future. “We’re going to stop the trailblazing,” he affirmed.
“I was very lucky. God was looking out for me,” he said, also acknowledging the vital role his wife played in his survival.
Do you think more precautions should be in place for hikers in remote areas? How would you react in such a situation?
Hiking Safety Tips For Everyone
Hiking, while a fantastic way to enjoy nature, can be risky if proper precautions aren’t taken. Here are some tips to stay safe on the trails:
- Plan Your Route: Always research your trail and be aware of potential hazards. Share your route with someone and stick to it.
- Check the Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas. Check the forecast before you go and be prepared for sudden shifts.
- Gear Up Properly: Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Carry essentials like water, food, a first-aid kit, a map, a compass, and a flashlight.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Be mindful of wildlife and potential dangers like loose rocks or slippery surfaces.
- Hike with a Buddy: Hiking with a companion is always safer than hiking alone.
- Learn Basic First Aid: Knowing how to treat injuries can be lifesaving in remote areas.
According to The National Park Service, falls are among the most common causes of hiking injuries. Always wear sturdy hiking boots and watch your step.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boulder Incidents and Hiking Safety
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How common are boulder-related accidents while hiking?
While not extremely common, boulder-related accidents can occur in areas with unstable rock formations, especially in mountainous or glacial regions.
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What should you do if someone is trapped under a boulder?
First, assess the situation and ensure your own safety. Immediately call for emergency assistance and provide precise location details.If possible, try to stabilize the boulder to prevent further movement but avoid actions that could worsen the situation. Keep the person trapped calm and provide reassurance.
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Can hiking poles help prevent boulder accidents?
hiking poles can provide added stability and help you navigate uneven terrain, potentially reducing the risk of slips and falls that could lead to boulder accidents.
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What role does weather play in boulder stability?
Weather conditions such as rain,snow,and freezing temperatures can affect boulder stability by weakening the surrounding soil and rock formations. Hikers should exercise extra caution during and after inclement weather.
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how critically important is it to stay on marked trails?
Staying on marked trails is crucial for hiker safety. Marked trails are typically assessed and maintained to minimize hazards, including unstable boulders.
Share this amazing survival story with your friends and family. What safety measures do you prioritize when hiking in remote areas? Leave a comment below!
