(WNY News Now) – SHANDAKEN, N.Y. — The Police Benevolent Association of New York State (PBA) commended state Forest Rangers for rescuing four hikers who became lost in the Slide Mountain Wilderness after consuming psychedelic mushrooms.
According to the PBA, the hikers texted for help late Friday evening while disoriented in the wilderness area near Giant Ledge, a popular but challenging trail network with steep drops and elevations between 1,100 and 2,600 feet.
Forest Rangers Franceschina, Jeffery, and Martin located the group at dusk, guided them safely down from Giant Ledge, and transported them to lodging. The rangers later returned to the site to recover the hikers’ lost car keys and personal belongings.
PBA President James McCartney praised the rangers’ efforts, noting their quick response at the start of a busy Labor Day weekend.
“This level of dedication, at the start of a busy Labor Day weekend, is representative of the commitment shared by our Forest Ranger members. The PBA of New York State is proud to highlight our Forest Rangers and all members’ continued dedication to public safety in the face of difficulty and danger.”
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