EDITOR’S NOTE: Lessons for everyone, and always a reminder that the signs, fences and restricted areas are there for a reason. Please obey all signage and don’t go into out-of-bound areas for your own safety. Thanks to our first responders and the US Coast Guard. Big deep breath – Spring break starts in a week …
On March 14th, 2026 the Lincoln City Police Department UAS Team responded to provide drone assistance in locating 1-3 persons believed to have fallen over the north face of God’s Thumb, a popular hiking trail north of Lincoln City, Oregon.
Through collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard Northwest, North Lincoln Fire Rescue, and the Lincoln County Technical Rescue Team (consisting of members from the Newport, North Lincoln, Toledo, Nestucca, Siletz, and Yachats Fire Departments), one teen was extracted via helicopter from approximately half-way down the cliff-face. Two other teens were located peering over the edge, not on any established trail, and were directed back to a safe area.
We urge hikers to use caution by staying on established trails, maintaining safe distance from edges, and to never trust trees, bushes, or loose rocks for support.
From the Lincoln City Police Department social media, the father of the teen, Gary S. Walter commented, “Hi there! I’m the father of the kid rescued. And you can guarantee that we are all super glad he’s ok. I’ve already personally thanked the chief from NLFR and the CG rescue swimmer who plucked my son of of the cliff! I’m a retired firefighter/paramedic who used to work for Life Flight. Imagine getting a phone call like this: “Dad I’m sliding on hill and I’m going to fall.” I’ve rescued people in similar conditions. My PTSD kicked in and I began the 90 mile drive from Albany. I stayed on the phone with him the whole time. He was cold and scared.They made a mistake. We’ll turn it into a learning lesson (I used to teach this stuff). But for now, let’s not criticize some kids for making a mistake. All three of them are straight A students with college scholarships waiting for them. I used to say, ‘If people didn’t make mistakes, I wouldn’t have had a job.’ Thank-you to all of the agencies listed above. It is amazing to see the cooperation and I’m so glad to everyone who fought to bring the helicopter back to the area! PS: The new hospital looks great!”