Saturday, July 21, 2007

Reagan Wells Rescue

Reagan Well is a small community on the Dry Frio River, about 12 miles from Concan.

Yesterday morning, Dick Peterson and Gary Curry took the Reagan Wells VFD firetruck to rescue Carolyn Curry, Gary's wife. Carolyn was stranded in her Tahoe, which was hanging onto the edge of flooded Pine Holler. This is a small wash that drains into the Dry Frio River just downstream a bit. It's usually bone dry, but the heavy rains yesterday were swelling everything that would hold water.
By the time they reached the crossing, Carolyn and her vehicle had disappeared. As they attempted to cross Pine Holler to begin their search, water started filling the big truck quickly. Dick and Gary had no choice but to get out of the truck as fast as possible. As they reached the top, the firetruck started to roll over, and they both jumped away from the vehicle into the waters. Luckily, they were able to grab the fence that had served as a water gap, and pulled theirselves to safety.
Mrs. Curry, after spending two and a half hours fighting for her life in the floodwaters of the Dry Frio, was rescued by a neighbor across the river, Roy Glasscock, and his friend Paul White. As of late yesterday, the Tahoe had not been found.

Thank God all are safe and back with their loved ones.

FrioMan

4 comments:

Lynn said...

I'm glad your friend is safe. I found your site while researching info. on the Frio. We're coming up Thursday and hope for better weather. Keep me informed.

Lynn

ldodge@calallen.k12.tx.us

jackie said...

I love the way you keep us in touch with the river. we have been coming up there for 10yrs. we had a rise when we were there july 7-14th. we have never been there during a rise. it was neat but scarry. keep it coming(the pictures) but you guys need a break in the rain. this is the most informational site out at the frio. we just love it!!
Jackie

Amy said...

I'm glad everyone made it safe too. We just left Thus. a.m. (7-19) after a three night stay. It was raining when we left, and had rained off and on the day before. Thanks for the pics. I agree with Jackie, your site gives alot of info that I can't seem to find anywhere else, ie; current pics, etc..

Mimi said...

Wow- so glad everyone is ok!!!! This is the perfect example of how quickly things change. I can remember a trip right after a big flood and tubing down the river and seeing trucks, campers, tents, camping equipment/supplies all along the river, wedged against trees, in trees, just every where. You really have to respect the force of water. I must say, the communication by the lodge/resort owners regarding a rise is just wonderful and everyone should take these warnings very serious as demonstrated by these photos.

Be safe everyone and have a great time on the frio!
Mimi