Upon arrival, Deputy Chief Sobieski and Drone Captain Grube quickly established a command center to assist with coordination of the search efforts.

Despite near-freezing temperatures, the Drone Unit immediately began searching the wooded area where the missing person was believed to have traveled. Approximately 40 minutes into the operation, Drone Pilots Goldstein and Little detected a heat signature. Captain Grube, monitoring the drone’s livestream, observed movement and identified someone waving their arms. This information allowed Deputy Chief Sobieski to be directed to the location, and additional resources were quickly deployed. The individual, though disoriented, was found in stable condition.

The success of the operation highlights the effective use of drone technology, our specialized training in understanding the behaviors of missing persons, and the teamwork displayed by the Drone Unit, and all units that responded to this incident.

PMFD Members on Scene
Pilot – Paul Little
Pilot - Evan Goldstein
CaptainPilot – Kris Grube
Deputy Chief - Ken Sobieski

Departments On Scene
Slate Belt Regional Police
Bushkill Police
Cetronia EMS
Blue Ridge Hook & Ladder
Wind Gap Fire
Plainfield Fire
Washington Fire
North Bangor Fire
Bushkill Fire
Palmer Fire