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Garfield County Search and Rescue wproks to save two people from a vehicle crash near the top of JQS Road near Rifle.

Search and rescue, CRFR rescue injured motorists

Vehicle accident occurred near the top of JQS Road in Rifle

PRESS RELEASE
September 30, 2025

At approximately 5:30 p.m. on Friday, September 26, Garfield County Search and Rescue (GSAR) assisted with a vehicle accident near the top of JQS Road in Rifle.

Nine GSAR members responded; prior to their arrival, Colorado River Fire Rescue (CRFR) medical personnel had rappelled to the scene to stabilize and provide care for two patients.

GSAR established rope systems, utilizing emergency vehicles as anchors, to raise the patients and CRFR personnel approximately 250 feet back to the JQS Road. The operation required navigating dense brush, trees, and sections of vertical rock. Two GSAR members were lowered with litters to package and secure the patients for the technical raise. Working together, GSAR and CRFR successfully raised all personnel and the patients back to the roadway.

Once on the road, the patients were transported to the top of JQS Road and transferred to a CareFlight helicopter for transport to Grand River Hospital in Rifle.

The rescue operation lasted about seven hours, with all teams clearing the scene at around 12:30 a.m. Saturday morning.

The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office commends the dedication and teamwork of GSAR, CRFR, and CareFlight personnel whose skill and professionalism ensured the safe outcome of this challenging mission.

You can volunteer to be a part of this Colorado team known as the Garfield Search and Rescue. You will use a variety of up-to-date equipment designed for the various types of rescues encountered throughout the year. You will be trained how to properly use the equipment by experts in their relative disciplines. Enjoy the outdoors and know the satisfaction and fulfillment that comes with helping others when they are in need.

More information, including how to join and become a part of this dynamic team, can be found on the internet by searching Garfield County Search and Rescue. As a search and rescue volunteer, you will be trained in the use of rescue equipment including snow machines, ATVs, water craft and if interested technical rock climbing and fast water rescue.