Amherst firefighters rescue a professional tree cutter from a 70-foot pine tree on Hollis Road on Nov. 23. Courtesy photo/Amherst Fire Rescue

AMHERST – On the morning of Nov. 23, Amherst firefighters responded to a residence on Hollis Road for a report of a professional tree cutter who was trapped near the top of a 70-foot pine tree.

According to Amherst Fire Rescue, firefighters arrived at the scene at 10:07 a.m. With the man stranded 65 feet in the air, firefighters called for an aerial truck from Milford Fire Rescue. It appeared that the victim became trapped when the top of the tree fell in the wrong direction, causing the rigging to become tangled and pinning the man against the trunk.

Firefighters performed an aerial rescue and safely lowered the victim to the ground. He was then taken to a local hospital for evaluation.

“This incident highlights the strength of our regional mutual aid partnerships and the professionalism of our firefighters and EMTs,” said Amherst Fire Chief Donald Waldron. “Our crews train for technical rescues and today their preparation ensured a successful and safe outcome for everyone involved.”