Coast Guard airlifts injured snowmobile rider

BEAVER ISLAND, Mich. – A 27-year-old male was medically evacuated after he was injured in a snowmobile accident here Thursday morning.

A Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City, Mich., HH-65C dolphin helicopter was diverted from an operational mission to transport Andrew Kenwabikise to Charlevoix Area Hospital.

“Spectacular coordination between the Beaver Island and Charlevoix Emergency Medical Services and the Coast Guard enabled a flawless mission to occur,” said Capt. Stuart Merrill, commanding officer of Coast Guard air station. “Saving lives is our primary mission, and we are always poised and ready to respond when we’re needed.”

The Coast Guard emphasizes to snowmobile riders and others enjoying winter sports to wear proper protective and safety gear, additionally, they should prepare for unexpected weather conditions and emergency situations.


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