Rome, Feb. 22 (LaPresse) – An extensive rescue operation by the Abruzzo Alpine and Speleological Rescue, in collaboration with the Air Force, concluded yesterday evening around 10:30 p.m. to save four young hikers from Rome who had become stranded on the Maiella, between Monte Cavallo and Sella Acquaviva, during a snow hike. The group, two born in 2003 and two in 2004, found themselves in difficulty on a snowy and exposed mountain section.
Upon receiving the distress call, a first team of Alpine Rescue technicians reached the group on foot, while a second team, including a doctor from the National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps, provided advanced medical assistance on-site. Due to the complexity of the operation and the need for rapid evacuation, support was requested from the Rescue Coordination Center of the Aerospace Operations Command, which dispatched a helicopter from the 85th SAR Center of the 15th Air Wing, departing from Pratica di Mare.
The four hikers were reached by the teams on the ground; one showed early signs of frostbite on the lower limbs. After stabilization, they were evacuated by helicopter and transferred to Chieti hospital for examination and treatment.