A routine excursion turned into a life-saving mission last week when a Hellgate Jetboat captain and crew sprang into action to rescue a person found floating in the Rogue River.
Last Thursday at about 9:30 a.m., just minutes after departing from the Hellgate Jetboat dock on a scheduled brunch excursion, the captain of the vessel spotted an unusual object in the water while navigating toward Hellgate Canyon. Upon closer inspection, it became clear that the object was a human body, floating face-up and motionless.
The captain initially feared the worst, but was alerted to possible signs of life. With no hesitation, the captain alerted passengers and maneuvered the boat alongside the individual. With the help from several guests, they secured the person and navigated to the nearest shore for a safe rescue.
Determining the woman required immediate medical attention, the captain brought her onboard and stabilized her. The crews requested emergency medical services to be on standby at the dock in Grants Pass. The boat returned to the dock where American Medical Response met the vessel, assisted the woman off the boat and transferred her to a gurney for further medical evaluation.
Following the incident, the excursion resumed with all passengers safely reboarded and the boat continuing its journey.
Travis Hamlyn, president of Hellgate Jetboat Excursions, said they are incredibly proud of their captain, crew and guests whose swift thinking and teamwork made a critical difference. He said this event is a powerful reminder of the importance of training, preparedness and community.
