Fact Check: The previous record for a helicopter rescue in Colorado was 13,700 feet (4,175 meters).

Fact Check: "The previous record for a helicopter rescue in Colorado was 13,700 feet (4,175 meters)."

What We Know

Recently, two men were rescued from Torreys Peak, a 14,300-foot (4,360-meter) mountain in Colorado, after being struck by lightning. This incident is believed to have set a new record for the highest helicopter rescue in Colorado history. During the rescue, it was reported that the previous record for a helicopter rescue was 13,700 feet (4,175 meters) (ABC News, wcnc.com, Denver7). The rescue operation involved a Colorado National Guard Blackhawk helicopter, which successfully lifted the more seriously injured man from an altitude of 14,200 feet (4,330 meters) (Mirror, Backpacker).

Analysis

The claim that the previous record for a helicopter rescue in Colorado was 13,700 feet (4,175 meters) is corroborated by multiple reliable sources. Reports from various news outlets, including ABC News, wcnc.com, and Denver7, consistently mention this figure as the prior record. The context of the claim is supported by the details of the recent rescue, which occurred at a higher altitude, thus confirming that the previous record was indeed 13,700 feet.

The sources cited are credible, as they include well-established news organizations that report on local and national events. They provide consistent information regarding the altitude of the previous record and the circumstances surrounding the recent rescue. Furthermore, the Alpine Rescue Team's public information officer, Jake Smith, is quoted in several articles, lending additional authority to the claim (Mirror, Backpacker).

While the sources are reliable, it is worth noting that the claim about the previous record is based on the belief of the rescuers involved, which may not have been officially documented or verified. However, given the consistency across multiple reports, the claim stands strong.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The assertion that the previous record for a helicopter rescue in Colorado was 13,700 feet (4,175 meters) is supported by multiple credible sources and aligns with the context of the recent rescue operation. The consistency of the reports from various news outlets reinforces the validity of this claim.

Sources

1. Men hit by lightning plucked from mountain in a record-high helicopter ...
2. Colorado's highest helicopter rescue saves two on Torreys Peak - wcnc.com
3. Men hit by lightning plucked from mountain in Colorado ...
4. Two men rushed to hospital after being struck by lightning during road ...
5. Hikers Struck by Lightning on Summit of Colorado Fourteener - Backpacker
6. Men hit by lightning plucked from mountain in record-high ...
7. Record-high Colorado helicopter rescue: Men hit by lightning - CTV News
8. Men hit by lightning plucked from mountain in record-high ...