Search & Rescue teams rescue mountain biker injured at Cline Butte

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A 73-year-old Bend man was airlifted to a hospital Sunday afternoon after sustaining injuries while mountain biking in the Cline Butte Recreational Area near Barr Road.

Deschutes County 9-1-1 received a call about the injured rider at 1:29 p.m. A Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Special Services Deputy contacted the man by phone and determined that a Search & Rescue team was necessary due to the location and reported injuries.

A response team consisting of one deputy and five Search & Rescue volunteers initially located the rider. After performing a medical evaluation, responders requested additional aid from Redmond Fire & Rescue, which used a side-by-side utility task vehicle to reach the location across rugged terrain.

AirLink launched a helicopter to assist based on the rider's condition and concerns regarding serious injuries. Search & Rescue volunteers carried the man on a litter to the aircraft after it landed near the scene. AirLink then flew the patient to St. Charles-Bend for medical treatment.

According to the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, department officials acknowledged the work of Search & Rescue volunteers, 911 Dispatch and Redmond Fire & Rescue for their quick response during the rescue operation.