CONTACT:
Conservation Officer Thomas Houghton
603-271-3361
June 11, 2024
Jaffrey, NH – On June 10, 2024, at approximately 11:50 a.m., New Hampshire Fish and Game was notified by South Western New Hampshire District Fire Mutual Aid about a hiker that had fallen on the White Cross Trail near tree line and was suffering from severe and potentially life threatening injuries. The victim, Samuel Gershowitz, 18, of Ann Arbor, MI was hiking for the first time with a family member when the incident occurred. Two Conservation Officers responded from Keene along with Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Mountain Patrol Rangers, and members of the Upper Valley Wilderness Response Team (UVWRT).
At approximately 1:00 p.m., Conservation Officers met Gershowitz who was already in the care of Mountain Patrol Rangers and in stable condition. Conservation Officers, UVWRT members, and Monadnock Park staff were able to carry Gershowitz in a litter down the White Cross Trail to the White Dot Trail arriving at Monadnock State Park Headquarters at approximately 3:30 p.m. Gershowitz was transported to Monadnock Community Hospital in Peterborough by Jaffrey-Rindge Memorial Ambulance for further evaluation and treatment of his injuries. Conservation Officers were assisted by Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Mountain Patrol Rangers, personnel from the Jaffrey-Rindge Memorial Ambulance Service, members of the Upper-Valley Wilderness Response Team (UVWRT), New Hampshire Emergency Services and Communications (911), and Southwestern New Hampshire District Fire Mutual Aid.
Gershowitz and his hiking partner were well prepared for a day’s hike at Monadnock State Park.
Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to purchase a Hike Safe card at www.wildnh.com/safe. The card helps support Fish and Game search and rescue activities. For safe hiking tips and a list of essential gear, please visit hikesafe.com.