DPS rescue couple that took infant hiking, ran out of water in Texas heat

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — What started as a wholesome family excursion, ended in a rescue mission when two 23-year-old parents decided to take their 3 month old on a hike in the blistering Texas heat.

Around 4:15 p.m. on August 20, Guadalupe Mountains National Park Rangers, located in Culberson County, alerted the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Aircraft Operations Division that a family of three was in need of rescuing.

The two 23-year-old parents said they started their hike in the mid-morning.

"Around 3 p.m. and nine miles later, the family ran out of water and began experiencing signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion due to the high temperatures at the park throughout the day," a DPS release stated.

The Aircraft Operations Division immediately dispatched a Pilatus PC-12 airplane to locate the family from the air.

Crews were able to locate the family on the mountain, and DPS’ AOD then dispatched an Airbus H-125 helicopter to assist in the rescue. Each member of the family was evaluated by medical professionals before being hoisted into the helicopter and flown down the mountain.

To view the rescue mission by DPS, click here.

Once they reached the bottom they were treated again by medical personnel.