Bend, Ore. -On 01/27/15, at approximately 12:40 pm, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, Bend Fire Department personnel, Oregon State Police Troopers, US Forest Service Officers and Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Volunteers responded to the area of Dillon Falls, approximately ¼ mile downriver from the boat ramp for a fall victim.
It was reported through 9-1-1 Dispatch, Chris Brinegar had fallen approximately 30 feet onto rocks near the Deschutes River and had suffered life threatening injuries. It was later determined Brinegar had been recreating in the area with a friend, had walked a short distance off trail and was on the rocks directly next to a very steep overlook of Deschutes River. Brinegar lost his balance and fell over the overlook, landing on rocks near the river.
Rescue personnel were able to maneuver down the rocky overlook and secure Brinegar within a rescue basket. A technical ropes mission was then completed to raise Brinegar and the rescue personnel. Brinegar was then transported via wheeled litter back to the area near Dillon Falls boat ramp, where Air Link was standing by. Air Link then transported Brinegar to St. Charles Hospital in Bend with life threatening injuries.
No foul play is suspected, but alcohol may have been a factor in this incident. Approximately 30-40 rescue personnel were utilized, who worked jointly for approximately 2 ½ hours to complete the rescue.
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