Ranger One used in Chattooga search

Ranger One, the helicopter belonging to the Oconee Sheriff’s Office, was used yesterday as part of the successful efforts to find three missing rafters on the Chattooga River. The three were found OK in what Scott Krein, county emergency services director, said was a misunderstanding over the time they had set in the river and the time they expected to exit. Nevertheless, “Ranger One is an important asset for the citizens of Oconee County,” says Sheriff Mike Crenshaw. Yesterday Ranger One, piloted by Dan Suddeth, lifted off from the Oconee Regional Airport shortly after 6:30 a-m and made its way to the river, where Dispatch was advised that the rafters were found about two miles from Earle’s Ford. From the ground, the rafters relayed to the helicopter that they were not in distress. Ranger One then directed rescue crews to the location.

Ranger One - Picture TwoRanger One