New video shows harrowing rescue of 100+ people trapped on Salt River
MESA, AZ (AZFamily) — Newly released video shows the dramatic rescue of more than 100 people stuck on the Salt River last Friday.
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office said a tree fell into the water, creating a dangerous situation for tubers.
“As we were responding, we were seeing empty tubes floating down the river and realizing something major is happening,” said MCSO deputy James Cesolini.
The video shows some people trapped in the tree and debris holding on while fighting the rushing rapids.
Cesolini said it is common for small groups to get stuck on the river, but this rescue was unprecedented.
“This large of an incident that grew to the size and scope that it did is really abnormal event for us,” said Cesolini. “I think it was a very scary experience for everyone from rescuers to the people who needed to be rescued themselves.”
There were only minor injuries reported.
Cesolini said they were fortunate no one drowned.
See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it.
Do you have a photo or video of a breaking news story? Send it to us here with a brief description.
Copyright 2024 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.
