October 16, 2025 — At approximately 8:12 a.m., the Frankford Township Fire Department (FTFD) was dispatched to the Culver’s Fire Tower along the Appalachian Trail for a technical rescue involving a victim who had fallen roughly 40 feet.

While en route, 25-2 requested air medical assistance, bringing Atlantic Air Ambulance Air 1 to a designated landing zone at Frankford Fire Station 1. The Branchville Hose Company #1 was requested to assist with landing zone (LZ) operations.

Upon arrival, 25-2 assumed command, arriving shortly after the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). FTFD Safety Officer 25-11, who also serves as New Jersey Forest Fire Service Car 35, arrived soon after and provided medical care alongside NJSP troopers to the seriously injured patient. Crews from 25 Rescue 2 and 25 UTV responded up the trail to assist in patient care and transport.

Due to the remote terrain and severity of injuries, crews initially requested NorthSTAR and SouthSTAR Air Medical Helicopters (NJSP Aviation Unit) for a potential basket hoist. However, the hoist was later cancelled after determining that ground removal would be faster.

UTVs from Sandyston Township Fire Department (Station 38) and the Stillwater Area Volunteer Fire Company (42 Fire), along with New Jersey Forest Fire Service apparatus, assisted in transporting EMS personnel and medical supplies from Atlantic BLS 292 and Saint Clare’s Health MIC 53 up the trail. Critical care was provided both on scene and during transport.

The patient was ultimately transported down the fire road to the landing zone at Frankford Station 1, where they were transferred to Atlantic Air 1 and flown to a trauma center for further treatment.

All units were back in service approximately 90 minutes after dispatch.

FTFD expressed gratitude to all responding agencies for their coordination and professionalism, including:

• NJ State Police Sussex Barracks
• New Jersey Forest Fire Service (Cars 35, 36, Engine A1)
• Branchville Hose Company #1
• Sandyston Fire Department (38 Utility, 38 UTV)
• Stillwater Fire (42 Utility, 42 UTV)
• Atlantic Air 1, Atlantic BLS 292, and Saint Clare’s MIC 53
• Sussex County Sheriff’s 911 Center dispatchers for expertly coordinating the response.

Responding FTFD Units:

25-2, 25 Brush, 25 Engine, 25 Rescue 2, 25 UTV

For further information, contact:

?? EMRDirector@frankfordtownshipfiredepartment.org