Hiker Airlifted to Safety After Fall in North Carolina Gorge

A hiker fell 20 feet in Linville Gorge, North Carolina, sustaining serious injuries. Emergency crews responded quickly, ensuring the climber’s rescue over the weekend.

Emergency services received a call around 2 p.m. Sunday, reporting a climber had fallen along the steep Shortoff Mountain portion of Linville Gorge. Burke Rescue Inc. and SAR detailed the incident on their Facebook page, explaining that the climber fell approximately 15–20 feet while attempting to place gear 40 feet above a ledge. The climber swung away from the wall and hit an adjacent rock pillar.

Paramedics promptly arrived, rappelling to the fallen climber. Additional resources were requested, including a vital request for whole blood to stabilize the patient. A volunteer from Burke Rescue ran about 1.5 miles with elevation gain of 1,000 feet in just 31 minutes, carrying the necessary whole blood.

Given the challenging terrain, a Black Hawk helicopter from the North Carolina Helo-Aquatic Rescue Team, identified as “Kill Devil 244,” joined the rescue efforts. The helicopter lifted Jacob Gregory from the mountainside, transporting him for medical treatment in Charlotte. The operation involved the collaboration of two dozen agencies from nearby counties.

An online fundraiser expressed gratitude, acknowledging the coordinated effort and bravery required to save Gregory. It recognized responders for rescuing a husband, father, brother, son, friend, and loved one.

“Climbing carries inherent risks,” Burke Rescue emphasized, urging climbers to know their abilities and utilize proper equipment.