Multi-Agency Water Rescue At Audra State Park Saves Injured Swimmer

A coordinated multi-agency water rescue unfolded at Audra State Park on Saturday, August 10. At approximately 2:50 p.m., a call for help was dispatched after a male swimmer suffered a severe head injury after diving from a rock into the Middle Fork River.

The emergency call mobilized several local volunteer fire departments, including Belington Volunteer Fire Department (Station 3), Philippi Volunteer Fire Department, Junior Volunteer Fire Department (Station 2), and Barbour County Ambulance Authority Stations 16 and 17. Unit 34 from Belington VFD, along with Boat 3 and five personnel, was on the road within minutes.

As the rescue operation intensified, additional support was requested. Coalton Fire Department, Elkins Volunteer Fire Department, and Beverly Volunteer Fire Department (Company 42) were swiftly added to the assignment. These departments also provided coverage to ensure no lapse in emergency services for the surrounding areas.

Once on the scene, first responders quickly assessed the situation. The injured swimmer had struck his head on the riverbed and was stranded on a rock in the middle of the river. The challenging location required rescuers to hike nearly half a mile down the lower cave trail, carrying specialized equipment to reach the victim.

A rope haul system was established, and a ladder was used to transfer equipment and personnel safely across the river to the patient. Paramedics on-site determined that the severity of the man's injuries required rapid transport to a trauma center. Maryland State Police Aviation Unit's Trooper 5 helicopter was requested for its hoisting capabilities.

The patient was carefully packaged and provided with advanced life support care before being hoisted to the helicopter. He was then flown to Ruby Memorial Hospital for further treatment.

Belington VFD managed the operation, ensuring seamless coordination among the various agencies. They extended its gratitude to all departments involved, including Barbour County 911, the West Virginia State Police, the Barbour County Sheriff's Department, and the Audra State Park Ranger.