Hunter Rescued From Bankhead No Injuries Reported

LAWRENCE COUNTY-At approximately 11:10 a.m. on March 22, Lawrence County Central 911 received a call from a hunter reporting he had become separated from his hunting partner in Bankhead National Forest. The individuals were reported to be from out of state, and several hours had passed since they were last together.

The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office Multi-Agency Search and Rescue Team responded to the area and began search operations. Upon arrival, deputies and SAR personnel interviewed the reporting party and quickly developed a search plan based on the last known location.

Lawrence County EMA assisted with Incident Command operations, helping coordinate resources, communications, and overall response efforts.

Due to the unknown condition of the missing hunter and the potential for injury, additional resources were requested through mutual aid. Multiple agencies responded to assist with ground search efforts, technical rescue capabilities, and tracking resources.

The search area consisted of steep, rugged terrain with several large cliffs, increasing the complexity and urgency of the operation. A side-by-side from Lawrence County EMA and Speake Fire & Rescue was utilized to help access remote areas.

After approximately two hours of coordinated search efforts, the missing hunter was located safe and without injury.

We appreciate the strong working relationships between agencies that allow for rapid response and successful outcomes in situations like this.

Agencies Involved:

• Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office Multi-Agency Search and Rescue

• Lawrence County Central 911

• Lawrence County EMA

• RAT Search and Rescue

• North Alabama Search Dog Association

• Huntsville Cave Rescue Unit

• Blackwater Search and Rescue

• Alabama Game and Fish (Game Wardens)

• U.S. Forest Service

• Winston County EMA

• Winston County Search and Dive

• Speake Fire & Rescue

 Excellent work by all personnel involved.