May 2, 2022 — Around 9 am El Dorado County Fire Protection District's Division 7703 and Engine 328 responded with Diamond Springs - El Dorado Fire Protection District Engine 349 and Medic 49 for a vehicle into the South Fork of the American River, downstream from the Mosquito Bridge. California Highway Patrol responded with patrol units and H-20, their rescue helicopter. A firefighter was hoisted down to the vehicle to check for occupants. Initial searches did not discover any victims. Firefighters also set up rope rescue systems as a contingency. The El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Dive Rescue Team also responded to further check the area. The incident is being investigated by the California Highway Patrol.
An El Dorado County Fire Protection District rescuer is hoisted by CHP H-20 down to the vehicle to check for victims.
EDSO divers check the river for signs of a victim.
An EDSO diver prepares to enter the water to check for a victim.
Engine 328 responded to the initial call for a vehicle in the South Fork of the American River near the Mosquito Bridge.
A vehicle can be seen on the right side of the river, prompting a response to check for possible victims.
A vehicle can be seen in the South Fork of the American River, just downstream from the Mosquito Bridge.
A vehicle can be seen in the South Fork of the American River, just downstream from the Mosquito Bridge.
EDSO dive team members assess the vehicle.
Rope systems extend from a guardrail down to a rock shelf adjacent to the partially submerged vehicle.
A vehicle can be seen in the South Fork of the American River, just downstream from the Mosquito Bridge.
Firefighters stand on top of a cliff where they used rope systems.
A vehicle can be seen in the South Fork of the American River, just downstream from the Mosquito Bridge.
A vehicle can be seen in the South Fork of the American River, just downstream from the Mosquito Bridge.
EDSO dive team members standby a vehicle in the South Fork of the American River, just downstream from the Mosquito Bridge.