Hiker Impaled on Nuuanu Trail Rescued, Hospitalized in Serious Condition

URGENT UPDATE: A hike to Lulumahu Falls turned terrifying on November 1, 2023, when a 25-year-old man was impaled by a tree branch along the steep and muddy trail in Nuuanu. Rescuers from the Honolulu Fire Department swiftly responded to the scene after a 911 call placed around 11:30 a.m. alerted them to the critical situation.

Firefighters faced challenging conditions as they worked to free the injured hiker. They utilized an electric chainsaw to cut a roughly six-inch branch that had skewered him, before carefully transporting him down the slick slope in a rescue litter. This slow and arduous process highlighted the dangers of hiking in such treacherous terrain.

According to Hawaii News Now, the hiker was administered advanced life support by Honolulu Emergency Medical Services at the scene before being rushed to a local hospital, where he remains in serious condition.

The Lulumahu Falls trail has a history of rescues due to its steep and slippery nature, particularly during wet conditions. Officials caution that hikes in this area require proper reservations and permits as it lies within the Honolulu Forest Reserve.

In light of this incident, authorities urge hikers to take necessary precautions: inform someone of their plans, carry a charged mobile phone, and wear appropriate footwear when tackling remote waterfall trails. The City’s Emergency Medical Services provides resources on how to prepare for remote hikes and what to do in an emergency.

As of now, officials have not released the name of the injured hiker. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available, emphasizing the need for caution when exploring Hawaii’s natural landscapes.

Stay tuned for further developments on this urgent situation.