Algonquin Park Rescue: 13-Year-Old Injured in Overnight Storm Emergency
via:@opp_east
A dramatic Algonquin Park rescue unfolded over the weekend after a powerful storm caused a tree to crash onto a tent, seriously injuring a 13-year-old boy who was camping with his mother in a remote section of the park.
The two had been spending the night deep inside Algonquin Provincial Park when severe thunderstorms rolled through late Saturday. Strong winds brought down multiple trees in the area, one of which fell directly on their tent, leaving the boy with serious injuries and no immediate access to help.
In a critical move, the mother activated an SOS emergency signal on a device, which transmitted their GPS coordinates to first responders, immediately alerting the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and initiating a complex rescue mission in Algonquin Park.
Responders from the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP, OPP Emergency Response Team, Algonquin Park Rangers, and Renfrew County Paramedics mobilized overnight. Due to stormy conditions, an aerial rescue was not possible. Crews had to navigate treacherous terrain, using ATVs and hand saws to cut through downed trees and thick brush until chainsaws could be delivered by the Deep River Fire Department.
After several hours, rescuers launched a canoe and paddled to the injured boy and his mother. First aid was provided on the spot to stabilize the teen.
By 8:30 a.m. Sunday morning, a Ministry of Natural Resources float plane was able to land on a nearby lake and evacuate both victims to hospital, where the boy remains under care for his injuries.
This Algonquin Park rescue involved exceptional coordination between several agencies, including:
• OPP Emergency Response Team
• MNR Aviation Team
• Renfrew County Paramedics
• Algonquin Park Duty Officer
• Joint Rescue Coordination Centre
• OPP Communication Centres and Provincial Operations Centre
Officials have praised the seamless teamwork, resilience, and professionalism shown during the rescue, calling it a prime example of successful multi-agency cooperation under pressure.
