YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK – The Yosemite Search and Rescue team conducted a harrowing rescue of an injured climber on the granite wall of El Capitan.
A helicopter flew Ranger Jesse McGahey up to the wall so he could provide emergency medical care for the climber. The crew had to use a highly specialized technique called a “toss-across,” which was developed specifically in Yosemite because of its sheer cliff faces. Rescuers toss a weighted bean bag that’s attached to a line to the injured climber. Then, that line can be attached to a stronger rope and ultimately connected to critical rescue equipment.
“The injured climber received urgent surgical care and is now recovering well,” said the National Park Service. The climber had fallen and injured his arm.
The incident unfolded on Oct. 20, 2025, demonstrating the incredible skill and bravery of the men and women of Yosemite Search and Rescue as well as the California Highway Patrol helicopter team that was used to insert the National Park Service onto El Capitan amid high winds that delayed the operation multiple times.
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