Salem, Ore. - Bruce Johnson, ODFW supervising biologist, Northeast wildlife research, was injured after he became entangled in an intercom cord as he was exiting a helicopter in Wallowa County this morning.
Johnson suffered a broken arm, broken ribs, and a broken leg. His injuries are not considered life-threatening at this time.
Johnson was taken by ambulance to Wallowa County Memorial Hospital in Enterprise after the accident. He will be transferred to Oregon Health and Science University Hospital in Portland.
The helicopter was operated by Leading Edge Aviation of Lewiston, Idaho.
The accident occurred at approximately 5:45 a.m. this morning at ODFW’s Wenaha Wildlife Area near Troy. Johnson was exiting the helicopter to capture an elk calf as part of a wildlife study being conducted by the department.
ODFW’s Northeast Regional Manager Craig Ely traveled to Enterprise with Bruce’s wife after the accident. “The thoughts of all ODFW employees are with Bruce and his family at this time,” said Ely.
Johnson is 55 and has worked for ODFW for 15 years.
Appropriate authorities are investigating the accident. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
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