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Santa Fe, NM – On the evening of December 30, 2024, the Santa Fe Regional Emergency Communications Center (RECC) received a call shortly after 5:00 PM reporting a lost hiker in the Ojo de la Vaca area of Cañoncito. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office (SFCSO) initiated the response and requested assistance from the Santa Fe County Fire Department (SFCFD), which deployed its advanced Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to support the search.

The SFCFD’s UAS program, led by Battalion Chief Salvatore Caputo and Emergency Management Coordinator Ignacio Dominguez, was established over the past year to enhance fire suppression and search and rescue capabilities. The department currently operates three drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras and one-way communication speakers.

Using this technology, SFCFD searched the area where the hiker was last reported. However, the hiker was not initially located. While continuing the search, SFCFD was dispatched at 6:06 PM to investigate an illegal burn in the hills north of Lamy. Suspecting a potential connection between the two incidents, the UAS team redirected to the Lamy area and deployed the drone to investigate.

At 8:24 PM, the UAS thermal imaging camera identified a small fire approximately one mile from the responders' location. Using the drone's speaker, SFCFD announced their presence and called for the hiker. Moments later, the hiker emerged, signaling for help.

SFCFD responders confirmed the hiker's exact location and assured them that assistance was on the way. Crews hiked into the area, rendered necessary care, and escorted the hiker to safety. The individual was subsequently transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

This successful rescue underscores the importance of advanced technology in emergency services and the seamless collaboration among Santa Fe County agencies, including the RECC, SFCSO, SFCFD, and administrative offices. Together, they exemplify a coordinated and effective response to emergencies.

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