Injured Northville Hiker Rescued During Storm in New Hampshire Mountains

Edward Bacon of Northville was rescued while hiking in the White Mountains during a storm in New Hampshire on Tuesday after he became stranded.

The 59-year-old was on the third day of a five day solo trek on the Franconia Ridge Trail when he fell and injured his hip, according to a press release from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, which assisted in the rescue. He crawled to an area where he found cell reception and made two calls for help before losing reception.

"He was equipped with backpacking gear, although his tent had blown away in the fierce winds," according to the press release. "Bacon was able to climb into his sleeping bag to stay warm, as he was becoming hypothermic from being rain-soaked and pummeled by winds while awaiting rescuers."

The Appalachian Mountain Club, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and local search and rescue helped Bacon get rescued.

"I want to commend the Herculean effort of all the participating search teams working through the night in very difficult conditions and rugged terrain to carry this man to safety. Most likely, they saved his life," said Fish and Game Lt. James Kneeland.

Bacon had to be carried 3.9 miles down the mountain "over rough terrain in winds sustained at 70 mph, with gusts over 80 mph," according to the release. Rescuers got Bacon to the trailhead at 3:20 a.m. on Wednesday. Bacon was then transported by Franconia Ambulance to Littleton Regional Hospital.

Officials said today via phone interview that Bacon is expected to be OK.