by Incredible Rescue of Driver After Fall from Height
On US Route 550 near the town of Ouray in Colorado, an extraordinary incident occurred – a pickup truck veered off the road and fell into a ravine over 90 meters deep. Thanks to the prompt actions of rescuers, the driver was safely extracted from the vehicle, and despite the terrifying circumstances, he sustained only minor injuries.
Dangerous Mountain Roads
Last year was the deadliest for drivers in the Swiss Alps since 2015, reminding us of the danger of mountain roads. Ouray, Colorado, often called the American Switzerland, became the site of a similar risky situation that, fortunately, ended in rescue.
Fall into Canyon
The incident occurred around 12:20 on Thursday, October 9, when the vehicle left the road between markers 88 and 89, near Box Canyon. Witnesses described a chaotic but impressive emergency response.
Melissa Hartsfield Cislick reported that she was among the first to arrive at the scene after an elderly man stopped her to ask for help. She noted: “There were emergency services, sheriff’s deputies, patrol officers, rescuers, volunteers – they did an excellent job. I was allowed to stay until it was clear that the man was alive. Great respect to those who go out and do this, probably often.”
Rescue Operation
Emergency services from Ouray County, volunteer firefighters, and mountain rescuers arrived at the scene and conducted a technical operation using ropes to evacuate the driver, who was fortunately the only one in the vehicle. Despite the significant height of the fall and the rocky bottom of the ravine, the driver escaped with only minor injuries. The operation involved the Ouray County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado State Patrol, and the Department of Transportation.
Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway, named for the enormous costs and complexity of its construction, is undoubtedly one of America’s most dangerous roads. It connects Ouray and Silverton and is famous for minimal guardrails, steep slopes, and the need for skilled engine braking during descent in either direction.
Conclusions
Although the Ford F-150 likely did not survive the fall, it fulfilled its purpose by protecting the driver under extreme conditions. This case once again emphasizes the importance of caution on mountain roads and the professional training of rescue services that can handle even the most difficult situations. Such stories remind us of the unpredictability of roads in mountainous terrain and the possibility of a positive outcome thanks to the quick and coordinated work of emergency teams.
