Massachusetts Hiker Rescued From New Hampshire Trail

FRANCONIA, NH — A Bay State hiker was taken to the hospital on Thursday after falling ill while on Old Bridle Path in Franconia.

Around 4 p.m., conservation officers received word that a hiker was suffering from a medical emergency on the path. The reporting party advised the hiker, Dennis Fleming, 24, of Waltham, “was suffering from heat-related illness and had not been able to move in over an hour,” according to Lt. James Kneeland of Fish and Game.

“Repeated attempts to rehydrate and cool down had not improved his condition,” he added, “(and) a rescue effort commenced.”

Officers and volunteers with the Pemi Valley Search and Rescue team responded to the trailhead and were able to find Fleming a little more than a mile from the trail. His condition, however, had not improved, requiring him to be carried out, according to Kneeland. Around 7:15 p.m., they were able to get Fleming into a Franconia Life Squad ambulance. He was then taken to Little Regional Hospital.

“The 17 rescuers endured extreme heat and humidity to complete this carryout,” Kneeland said.

Fleming, Kneeland said, had been hiking with two other people. They spent the night on Garfield Ridge but ran out of water. Later, they were able to get more water from a hut but the heat and humidity took their toll on Fleming.

“He only made it another mile and a half before he could not continue,” Kneeland said. “For over an hour his companions attempted to rehydrate and cool him down but his condition did not improve so a call for help was made.”

For safe hiking tips and a list of essential gear, visit hikesafe.com. Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to purchase a Hike Safe card at wildnh.com/safe. The card helps support Fish and Game search and rescue activities.

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