BLOOMINGTON – First responders were kept busy Saturday and Sunday morning by severe storms, which caused a tree to fall on a person at Hardin Ridge Campground and damaged multiple boats and docks at Fourwinds Marina.
The two incidents, which occurred almost simultaneously, required coordinated efforts from the Monroe Fire Protection District, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, IU Lifeline Ambulance, and Indiana Conservation Officers.
Hardin Ridge Campground Rescue
At approximately 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 17, Monroe Fire Protection District Engine 21 and Battalion 22 were dispatched to Hardin Ridge Campground after reports of a person trapped under a fallen tree. Crews faced significant delays due to numerous downed trees and power lines blocking the roads, forcing them to cut through debris and find alternate routes.
The rescue was further complicated by poor cell signal in the area, which made locating the victim difficult. Through persistent communication with dispatchers and additional 911 callers, first responders eventually pinpointed the correct location. Once on the scene, campground staff guided them directly to the injured individual.
The patient remained alert and responsive throughout the ordeal. Emergency medical personnel stabilized the person while firefighters, law enforcement, and bystanders worked together to cut away the tree sections to free their leg carefully. The patient was then transported to a hospital in stable condition.
Fourwinds Marina Evacuation
Just six minutes after the initial call to Hardin Ridge, additional Monroe Fire Protection District units—Engines 22 and 23, along with Marine 24—were dispatched to Fourwinds Marina. Reports indicated that high winds had caused multiple boats and docks to break loose.
Upon arrival, crews found damaged walkways and displaced docks. After climbing over the broken structures, firefighters confirmed that no injuries had occurred. However, due to concerns about structural damage, potential electrical hazards, and fuel leaks, marina management, fire crews, and Indiana Conservation Officers decided to evacuate all individuals from the affected docks.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, approximately 100 patrons were stranded on the now free-floating boat docks. Deputies assured everyone’s safety by having them stay on the docks until a proper safety assessment and route were found to get the patrons to shore.
Firefighters, marina staff, and conservation officers worked together through the early morning hours to safely shuttle boaters back to shore. The storm also caused other damage on the property, including downed trees and the destruction of an event tent.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office would like to commend the responding agencies, Monroe County Fire Protection District, IU Health Ambulance, Indiana DNR, and MCCD for their hard work, emergency preparedness, and calmness during the storm.
