Overview
- Scottsdale and Phoenix firefighters responded to reports of a man and woman showing signs of heat-related illness on the Gateway Loop Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and launched an active rescue operation.
- More than 25 firefighters and technical rescue personnel were assigned to the scene and four Scottsdale Fire Department e-bikes were used to carry life‑support equipment up the trail.
- Rescue teams planned to remove the hikers by utility terrain vehicle with a Big Wheel rescue sled held as a backup if the trail or conditions prevented vehicle access.
- The operation is unfolding during First Alert Weather Days for the Phoenix area with forecast highs near 112–117 degrees, increasing the risk of heat-related emergencies on desert trails.
- Officials urged hikers to avoid the hottest part of the day, hike early, carry extra water, know their limits, and turn back at the first sign of heat illness as crews continue the response.