Young boaters returning from a day on the lake get trapped by Elk Lane Fire, rescued by firefighters

Matthew Draxton will report on NewsChannel 21 FOX at Four

CULVER, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A group of young boaters returning from a day out on Lake Simtustus Sunday evening were caught by surprise and trapped by the fast-growing, lightning-sparked Elk Lane Fire west of Madras, as they were leaving the resort, prompting a narrow escape and rescue by fire crews.

Firefighters were able to safely evacuate the group of six, but a family member of those involved said they were "very close to perishing."

Matthew Draxton is speaking with some of the people involved about what happened, what they were thinking when they first were leaving, how they tried to escape the fire and about their rescue.

His report will be on NewsChannel 21 Fox at Four.