Lost Hiker On Sourland Mountain Rescued By Firefighters

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — A lost hiker on the Sourland Mountain was rescued by firefighters in Hillsborough on Saturday night.

Around 5 p.m., Flagtown Fire/Rescue - Hillsborough Volunteer Fire Co. #1 responded to a report of a lost hiker on the Sourland Mountain off East Mountain Road.

With the help of Somerset County Communications, who was on the phone with the hiker, firefighters were able to get the hiker's GPS coordinates.

Search teams deployed UTVs to access the trail entrance, and then members hiked in on foot, according to the fire department.

About 1 hour into hiking, the missing man was found and escorted back to the pipeline easement, where he was taken back to the parking lot by firefighters.

It took about one and a half hours to conduct the entire rescue.

"Incidents like this require support from our dispatchers at Somerset County Communications. They maintain contact with the caller and assist us with determining location and coordinating as our search teams come closer to the callers. It’s an incredibly helpful role that deserves recognition," said the fire department.

Additionally, Flagtown was helped by firefighters from Neshanic Fire Co., Hillsborough Fire Co. 2, and Somerset County Park Rangers. Hillsborough Police, Hillsborough Township Office of Emergency Management, and Robert Wood Johnson EMS were also on site.

Flagtown Fire Company is made up of volunteers. Interested in joining? Visit flagtownfd.com or facebook.com/flagtownfd.

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