Urgent Rescue: Seriously Injured Biker Saved After 5.5-Hour Operation

UPDATE: A serious mountain biking accident led to a dramatic 5.5-hour rescue operation in Cumberland on December 9, 2023. The incident unfolded around 11 a.m. when emergency services received a call about a seriously injured female biker on the treacherous Blockhead trail, a notorious black diamond route.

The woman suffered significant injuries, including suspected spinal and head trauma, after falling on a slippery rock feature. Immediate medical assistance was crucial, and fortunately, an advanced medical team from Comox Valley Search and Rescue was nearby. Team leader Jamie McCue reported that the team responded swiftly, with a physician and ambulance paramedic on-site within minutes.

The remote location, several kilometers from the village and accessible only by bike or logging road, complicated the rescue efforts. Despite attempts to deploy a helicopter, foggy conditions necessitated a ground extraction using two UTVs to navigate the rugged terrain.

Once the patient was stabilized, she was transported to BC Ambulance personnel on Trent River Main for further assessment and hospital transport. McCue emphasized the importance of timing, noting, “The patient was in pretty rough condition but they were able to provide care, make her comfortable, and administer medication in the field.”

This incident highlights the increasing demand on the Comox Valley Search and Rescue team, which has already responded to a record number of calls this year, surpassing last year’s total of 73 calls. With three weeks remaining in 2023, the team anticipates exceeding 15,000 hours in search and rescue operations, community events, and educational programs.

As mountain biking continues to grow in popularity in the Cumberland area, the risk of injuries remains high, prompting urgent calls for safety measures. This rescue serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with extreme sports and the critical role of emergency services in ensuring the safety of outdoor enthusiasts.

Residents and bikers are urged to remain vigilant and prepared as the Comox Valley Search and Rescue team gears up for what promises to be another busy season ahead. For now, the injured biker is receiving the specialized care she needs, thanks to the quick actions of the rescue teams involved.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.