On Saturday, February 17, 2024, multiple calls came into the Kane County Sheriff’s Office concerning individuals that had accessed an area of steep grades of sandstone off the main trail near Sand Caves north of Kanab. Kane County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Kane County Sheriff Search and Rescue and Kane County EMS responded.
Left to right, photos courtesy of Rod Willis:
Once the five-year-old girl was secured, she was carried down the sandstone approximately 50 feet to where her parents and medical personnel were stationed.
Kane County Sheriffs Office/Kane County Search and Rescue.
When deputies arrived, it was discovered that a father had made it down by sliding but a five-year-old female was still stranded. First responders made it to the female and helped her stay calm and in place while Kane County Sheriff Search and Rescue (KCSAR) Technical Rescue Team determined that approaching from above would be the safest approach for all involved. KCSAR descended from above to the young female and made contact with her and first responders. Once the female was secured, she was carried down the sandstone approximately 50 feet to where her parents and medical personnel were stationed. Neither the young female nor anyone else was injured from the incident.
Later that evening, KCSAR conducted traffic control for an event held in Kanab. Following the event at approximately 9 p.m., Kane County Sheriff Search and Rescue were deployed for a family of five that had become cliffed up near Diana’s Throne just off Highway 89. The family had already descended numerous rappels down the canyon. Kane County Sheriff Deputies arrived along with Kane County Sheriff Search and Rescue Technical Rescue Team. A deputy was able to assist the family down the rappel while KCSAR crews assisted the family getting out of the canyon and back to their vehicle.
Kane County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) has seen an uptick of emergency calls coming from the Sand Caves area. Most of these calls could’ve been avoided if visitors stayed on designated routes. KCSO asks to please enjoy the area but always go prepared and avoid situations that may cause injury to you or loved ones.
The Kane County Sheriff’s Office is extremely grateful to their deputies and the men and women of their Search and Rescue Team. These volunteers donate hundreds to thousands of hours each year in trainings and search and rescue operations. This was just one day of their dedicated and unwavering service they have for the citizens and visitors of Kane County.
