A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk Helicopter positioned in Cordova on October 5, 2020. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Air Station Kodiak

An Air Station Kodiak aircrew rescued three people before sunrise on Wednesday by hoisting them aboard an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter, just hours after their raft ran aground in the Copper River near Cordova.

The trio received emergency medical services in Cordova.

The USCG Sector Anchorage command center watchstanders got the medevac request on Tuesday evening from a good Samaritan who said the 14-foot raft had run aground, and the passengers were unable to get to shore.  The aircrew was on scene at 12:34 a.m. Wednesday to begin the hoist.

The rafters were transferred to Cordova Volunteer Fire Department EMS personnel, who transported them to the Cordova Community Medical Center.

Lt. J.g. Jacob Evertt said the bystander’s quick call was crucial to the success of the rescue operation.

All three people were reported in stable condition.

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