Russell County Search & Rescue

05/08/2026

Exceptionally meaningful milestone for Russell County Search and Rescue. Our team had the rare opportunity to lead a highly specialized and practical rescue scenario at Wolf Creek Dam, made possible through the professionalism and partnership of the crew at American Bridge.

As part of the company’s Safety Week, we were invited not only to speak with their team, but to demonstrate and instruct—showcasing the skills, capabilities, and technical rescue disciplines that define our mission. This wasn’t a routine training day. It was a chance to guide a scenario in one of the most unique environments in our region, and to share real‑world rescue practices with a team committed to safety.

In addition to the hands‑on scenario, we worked together to develop a joint response plan that integrates both organizations as one unified team, ensuring the highest level of safety for their employees. Opportunities like this are rare, and today highlighted the strength that comes from true collaboration between industry and emergency services.

A sincere thank‑you to everyone involved. We look forward to continuing this partnership and leading future scenarios that strengthen readiness for all.

04/15/2026

Today we honor Lieutenant Brenda Bunch for an incredible milestone — 37 years with Russell County Search and Rescue. Thirty‑seven years of answering the call, day or night. Thirty‑seven years of showing up when people needed help the most. Thirty‑seven years of dedication, courage, and steady leadership that has shaped this team and this community.

Brenda is the kind of person who doesn’t just serve — she sets the standard. Her commitment, her calm in the toughest moments, and her willingness to give so much of herself have made a lasting impact on every one of us who’s had the privilege to work beside her.

Thank you, Lieutenant Bunch, for your decades of service, your example, and your heart for this county. Russell County is a safer place because of you.

Happy 37th anniversary with Search and Rescue — what a legacy.

04/07/2026

Your dedicated search and rescue team practicing their rope rescue skills transitioning from day to night operations.

02/05/2026

Free class open to all agencies.

Fill out this form to register.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSei_HGubS53d0XExc9c6ruz5vLSl47B6pDmruHITlj_GH4Iaw/viewform

02/03/2026

Around 4 a.m., Russell County Search and Rescue was dispatched to the Pulaski County line for a missing 15‑year‑old who had left his home around 2 a.m. and slid down a steep hillside, becoming lost and unable to climb out.

After the juvenile was located by drone, rescuers made their way to him and confirmed he was safe but stranded between 2 cliff faces. A rope system was set up, and one of our rescuers rappelled down to reach him. With no safe way out except straight back up, the juvenile was secured into a harness and hoisted up the cliff before being walked to an ambulance. He was transported to Russell County Hospital for treatment of mild hypothermia.

This was a true multi‑agency operation, and it’s proof once again that when teams work together, the public benefits.

A huge thank‑you to:

• Pulaski County Rescue Squad
• Somerset SRT
• Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office
• Nancy fire department
• Faubush fire department
• Russell County EMS
• Pulaski County EMS
• Russell County Dispatch
• Russell County Emergency Management

Your teamwork made the difference.

01/31/2026

Four of our members braved freezing temperatures — in the air and the water — to push their training even further today. It takes a rare kind of person to volunteer their Saturday to stand in icy water for the safety of others.

Their dedication is just one more reminder of the commitment our team brings to Russell County every single day.

11/26/2025

09/29/2025

🚨 Overnight Cliff Rescue at Lake Cumberland State Resort Park 🚨

At approximately 2:00 AM on Monday morning, Russell County Search and Rescue was dispatched to the overlook area of Lake Cumberland State Resort Park for reports of a possible individual over a cliff.

Crews arrived on scene via boat and located an 18-year-old male, partially in the water and injured from an apparent fall. The subject was conscious but combative with rescuers and emergency personnel. He was safely secured and transported by boat to an awaiting ambulance.

Due to the nature of the injuries, air transport to a trauma center was initially requested. However, complications during the helicopter landing prevented flight, and the patient was subsequently transported by ground to Russell County Hospital for further evaluation.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all partnering agencies who assisted during this complex response. Our local emergency personnel continue to demonstrate professionalism, resilience, and dedication in every situation.

09/01/2025

🚨 Water Rescue Near Wolf Creek Dam 🚨

At approximately 9:00 AM, Russell County Search & Rescue was dispatched to assist a kayaker who had capsized in the frigid waters near Wolf Creek Dam. The individual, fortunately wearing a personal flotation device (PFD), was pulled from the water by a nearby boater who acted swiftly and courageously.

Despite the PFD, the kayaker had ingested a life-threatening amount of water and was in critical condition. Emergency crews coordinated a rapid response, and the individual was airlifted to UK Hospital for advanced medical care.

Our team remained on scene to recover the kayak and ensure the area was secure. This incident is a powerful reminder of the importance of wearing proper safety gear—and of the strength found in collaboration.

We extend our sincere thanks to:

• Russell County Dispatch
• Russell County EMS
• Russell County Emergency Management
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
• The citizens who stepped in without hesitation

Russell County continues to prove that we are stronger together.

Update 9/2/25: as of last night the gentleman was back home and had recovered physically. A traumatic event like this takes its toll mentally so please continue to pray for his healing.

08/13/2025

🚨 Incident Response Update – August 12, 2025

At approximately 6:00 PM CST, Russell County Search and Rescue (RCSAR) was dispatched to a report of an individual who had fallen from a jet ski, entered the water, and did not resurface.

Crews responded immediately to the Alligator 1 boat ramp, where a witness informed them that the vessel had crossed the lake and struck the bank. Upon arrival, responders located the jet ski still running and in gear. While initiating the search, another jet ski rider alerted our team that the individual was floating nearby. Our marine unit quickly responded, and one team member entered the water to secure the victim. She was brought aboard and transported to a waiting EMS unit, where she was sadly pronounced deceased.

The victim was a 55-year-old female who was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.

Following the initial recovery, crews returned to the area to investigate reports of a possible second victim. After approximately one hour of searching, it was confirmed that all individuals potentially involved had been accounted for.

💔 We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family during this incredibly difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts.

🙏 We would like to thank our partners for their swift and professional response:

• Russell County Dispatch
• Russell County EMS
• Russell County Emergency Management
• Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources