A Long Beach man endured a harrowing two-day ordeal behind a raging waterfall before being rescued via helicopter.
At a Glance
- A 46-year-old man from Long Beach, California, became trapped behind a waterfall in the Seven Teacups area after falling from his rappel lines.
- He was first reported missing on August 11 when he failed to return to his vehicle; his friends had left a note urging a 911 alert if the vehicle remained.
- Search teams employed infrared cameras, drones, and aircraft and finally spotted him alive and responsive behind the cascade on August 12.
- A California Highway Patrol helicopter performed a hoist rescue, and he was treated for minor injuries and dehydration before reuniting with family.
- Authorities emphasized the dangers of the Seven Teacups and urged canyoneers not to go solo and to respect extreme water hydraulics.
The Incident Unfolds
On August 10, the Long Beach man—identified as 46-year-old Ryan Wardwell—ventured into the Seven Teacups area in Tulare County to rappel a series of cascading falls. His companions deemed the conditions too dangerous and turned back. Concerned, they left a note on his car warning anyone passing to call 911 if the vehicle remained past the next day.
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When Wardwell did not return by August 11, law enforcement launched a search. Teams used infrared technology, aircraft, and drones to scour the remote, rugged terrain—but poor lighting and treacherous conditions delayed progress.
Discovery and Rescue
On the morning of August 12, a drone located Wardwell alive and responsive, trapped in a cave-like area behind the churning waterfall. Authorities described the dangers of the location, noting the powerful “hydraulics” had dislodged his ropes and trapped him in a swirling eddy known locally as the “toilet bowl.”
Responders dispatched a California Highway Patrol helicopter. A rescuer was lowered into the falls, secured Wardwell in a hoist apparatus, and both were raised to safety. Despite his drenched and hypothermic state, Wardwell suffered only minor injuries and dehydration and was reunited with his loved ones.
Lessons from the Teacups
First responders and park officials issued stern reminders: the Seven Teacups route poses extreme hazards—particularly during high water flow—making solo trips risky, even for experienced canyoneers. Visitors are urged to assess conditions rigorously, never underestimate white-water hydraulics, and avoid venturing into such terrain alone.