UPDATE: A man was rescued Saturday morning, January 24, after his SUV teetered on the edge of a cliff along Highway 18 in Big Bear, California. Emergency crews responded urgently at around 11:30 a.m. to reports of the vehicle precariously perched several hundred feet high.
According to Eric Sherwin, spokesman for the San Bernardino County Fire Department, the SUV was attempting to pull out of a turnout near mile marker 39.5 when it unexpectedly went over a berm. Investigators later confirmed that the driver mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead of the brake, resulting in the vehicle’s dangerous position.
In a fortunate turn of events, the female passenger managed to exit the SUV before emergency responders arrived, suffering no injuries. The male driver, however, remained inside the vehicle, hesitant to move as firefighters worked diligently to secure the SUV.
Fire crews quickly attached a chain from their engine to the SUV to stabilize it, ensuring the man’s safety as they assisted him out of the vehicle. Fortunately, he too was unharmed, and no other vehicles were involved in this incident.
This dramatic rescue highlights the risks drivers face on mountainous roads. Authorities urge caution and attentiveness, especially in challenging conditions.
As details continue to emerge, all eyes will be on the investigation into this incident. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
