Tree worker rescued after falling 100 ft into cavern in Rosendale

ROSENDALE, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A tree worker was rescued after falling 100 feet into a cavern off Hickory Bush Road on Wednesday. Police say the man, not identified by Police, suffered a serious leg and side injury from the fall.

Around 11:25 a.m., Rosendale Police and the Bloomington Fire Department were dispatched for reports of an injured worker in a cave. Upon arrival, they located the man and immediately called for backup because of the location.

According to police, the man was working with a tree-clearing company clearing along the Central Hudson high-power lines when they believe he was struck and swept into the natural cavern by a falling tree. Two coworkers repelled down into the cave to help the man before rescue teams arrived.

Around 11:45 a.m., the Kingston Fire Department was requested for assistance in a technical rope rescue. Additional utility terrain vehicles (UTV) were also requested because of accessibility issues.

About 90 minutes after the initial call, the man and his coworkers were lifted from the cave. The tree worker was transported to the Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital for his injuries.

Rosendale Police were also assisted by the St. Remy Fire Department. Marbletown Rescue, Empress Ambulance and the Twin Clove Technical Rescue were also notified and assisted.