Deschutes County Search and Rescue hosts reunion day with man rescued from Benham Falls
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) - Deschutes County Search and Rescue first responders just got the opportunity to reconnect with a Eugene man they rescued nearly a year ago.
In June of 2024, Mike Jones was walking near Benham Falls when he accidentally fell backwards into the water. After falling nearly 40 feet into the Deschutes River, Mike was able to catch himself on a log downstream and dial 911 and alert first responders to his location.
The first rescue crew technician to arrive was Bend Fire's off-duty rescue technician, Dan Price, who was nearby at the time. Using a personal kayak, Price was able to find Jones and stabilize him while more support arrived.
Mike Jones had suffered multiple serious injuries and was flown by Airlink to St. Charles Bend for intensive care.
Nearly a year later, Central Oregon first responders had the opportunity to meet Mike Jones after his recovery.
In a social media post, Bend Fire and Rescue described the evening as a "full-circle moment," where first responders involved were able to reflect on the incident and hear from Jones what it was like from his perspective.
Deschutes County Search and Rescue also used the event as an opportunity to thank the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, Deschutes County 911, Bend Fire and Rescue, Life Flight Network and Sunriver Fire and Rescue for their support in the rescue.