In a stunning survival story, a 46-year-old California man was rescued last week after being trapped behind a powerful waterfall for nearly two days. The daring helicopter extraction, captured on video, has since gone viral.
How the accident happened
The man, identified as Ryan Wardwell, was rappelling down the Seven Teacups waterfalls on the Kern River in Tulare County on August 10 when he slipped and fell into an open space behind the falls, according to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO).
Wardwell had set out on the hike with friends, but his companions decided against rappelling due to the heavy downpour of the waterfall. Before leaving, they left a note on his car asking that if the vehicle was still there the next day, someone should report him missing.
When Wardwell did not return by August 11, a missing person complaint was filed, triggering a search-and-rescue operation.
The rescue effort
Search teams first deployed an aircraft with infrared technology to scan the area, but poor lighting forced them to suspend efforts on the first night. On August 12, drones were used to check behind the falls, where Wardwell was found alive, though exhausted.
The rescue required a helicopter hoist operation.
- A California Highway Patrol (CHP) H-40 helicopter was dispatched.
- A TCSO rescue team member was lowered behind the waterfall.
- Wardwell was secured and carefully lifted to safety.
TCSO described the effort as a “delicate hoist extraction” due to the force of the water and the confined space.
His condition after rescue
Wardwell was taken to a landing zone nearby, where medical personnel treated him for minor injuries, dehydration, and fatigue. He has since reunited with his family.
Speaking afterward, Wardwell said he was shocked by the fall, having successfully scaled the waterfalls multiple times before. Captain Kevin Kemmerling of TCSO added that Wardwell had attempted to free himself from behind the falls but “there was nothing he could do to break through.”
Viral moment and lessons learned
Footage of the helicopter operation has been widely shared online, with many praising the skill of the rescue crews. Authorities say the incident underscores the dangers of attempting extreme sports in unpredictable natural conditions.
Outdoor safety experts recommend:
- Never attempting difficult climbs or rappels alone.
- Informing friends or family of your exact plans.
- Carrying communication devices where possible in remote areas.
For Wardwell, luck, preparation, and a rapid response from authorities combined to make his story one of survival rather than tragedy.
Watch the video here