Eugene, OR (January 19, 2026) – Emergency crews carried out a complex and rare rescue Saturday afternoon after a man was discovered trapped in a narrow crevice near the University of Oregon campus, according to Eugene Springfield Fire officials.
The incident occurred around noon on January 17 along Garden Avenue near the Willamette River. Bystanders walking in the area spotted an unresponsive man lodged 10 to 15 inches deep between a concrete diversion wall and a large quarry stone.
Firefighters and medics responded immediately, launching a delicate extrication operation. It took approximately 80 minutes and the coordinated effort of 20 personnel to safely free the man from the confined space.
The victim, described as a man in his mid-30s, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Authorities have not yet released his identity or further details about how he became trapped.
The incident remains under investigation. We send our heartfelt wishes for the man’s recovery and commend the responders for their swift and skillful rescue efforts.
