News

News Release from Marion Co. Sheriff's Office
Posted on FlashAlert: June 19th, 2017 12:38 PM

This Saturday, around 5:00 p.m., deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office were called to the Opal Creek Wilderness after a hiker experienced a medical emergency in the Jawbone Flats area. Trace Downen, 27, of Portland was hiking with his three brothers when he became ill.

Some 19 Rescuers hiked the four miles in to Mr. Downen and carried him back out to the trail head. Mr. Downen was flown to the Salem Airport by the Army Air National Guard and transported by ambulance to the Salem Hospital. Mr. Downen was released from the hospital Sunday and is said to be at home recovering.

The Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team, Linn County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team, the Stayton Fire Department, Lyons Fire Department, Gates Fire Department and the Oregon Air National Guard.

No images of the rescue are available. The brother of Mr. Downing is willing to speak with media, his contact information can be obtained by emailing cbaldridge@co.marion.or.us

Contact Info:
Primary PIO Phone: 503. 584. MCSO (6276)
Public Information Officer Lt. Chris Baldridge
Cell Phone: 503.930.0579
Email: cbaldridge@co.marion.or.us
On Twitter: @MCSOInTheKnow
www.Facebook.com/MCSOInTheKnow