Mass. hiker flown to hospital after suffering medical episode on NH mountain
A Massachusetts man was flown to the hospital after he suffered a medical episode while hiking a mountain in New Hampshire on Sunday afternoon.
Crews responding to a call for a medical emergency on the summit of Mount Pierce around 2:30 p.m. found a hiker who was in need of immediate treatment, according to New Hampshire Fish and Game.
The hiker, 60-year-old John Swindlehurst, of Walpole, hiked up Crawford Path to the Mizpah Springs Hut and made it to the summit of Mount Pierce when his condition suddenly deteriorated.
“Due to the nature of the medical emergency, a call to the New Hampshire Army National Guard was made requesting an emergency helicopter evacuation,” Fish and Game officials said in a news release.
A Black Hawk helicopter made a technical landing on the summit just before 6 p.m. and Swindlehurst was transported to Littleton Regional Healthcare for evaluation and treatment. He is expected to be OK.
“It is important to note that Swindlehurst was hiking with a group and was extremely prepared. He had purchased a Hikesafe Card, had all of essential gear required for a summer day hike and had previously hiked nearly half of New Hampshire’s 4000-foot peaks,” officials added. “This incident serves as a reminder to always hike with a companion or group when recreating in the mountains. Medical emergencies can happen regardless of whether you are prepared and have a plan.”
No other details were immediately available.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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