IMPERIAL COUNTY, CA (AZFamily) — What began as a leisurely drive through the desert turned into a potentially life-threatening situation for two senior citizens who became stranded in a remote area of Imperial County, California, with little shade and extreme sun exposure.
Imperial County Fire Department rescuers were called to the area of Highway 78 and Milpitas Wash, near the Arizona border, after reports that the couple needed help. Border Patrol agents also assisted in the search.
“Our unit responded to the area of Highway 78 and Milpitas Wash here in Imperial County. We initially encountered one patient of two,” said Cedric Cesena with the Imperial County Fire Department.
According to call logs, agents noted the man was not responding to questions and appeared disoriented.
“That patient was assessed and transported to a local hospital with the effects of prolonged exposure to the sun,” Cesena said.
The man told rescuers he was not alone earlier in the day. His wife was still missing in the desert. Crews then launched a search to locate her.
“A second party was later extracted out of the desert by the use of REACH Air Medical Services, which provided air medical transport for that patient,” Cesena said.
Cesena said investigators still don’t know why the couple was in that area, which is not a typical route for sightseeing. He said the man was able to explain how they got into trouble.
“While they were out in the trail, their vehicle became stuck in the sand and was incapacitated, and they were unable to continue in the vehicle, and they continued on foot seeking assistance,” Cesena said.
Search and rescue crews are reminding anyone who gets stuck in remote desert terrain that it’s usually safest to stay with the vehicle. Cars can provide shelter and are far easier for aircraft to spot than a person on foot.
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