HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — A woman was rescued after her SUV went down a steep ravine along Georgia 197 North, leaving her trapped for more than an hour and forcing an extensive emergency response.
The crash happened about a mile north of “the dip,” where the roadway remains blocked in all directions as crews continue working to remove the vehicle.
The vehicle came to rest in a difficult-to-reach area below the roadway, prompting responders to deploy high-angle rope systems to safely access and extricate the driver.
Rescuers said the woman suffered minor facial injuries and was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville for treatment.
The situation was complicated by the terrain and the vehicle’s condition. Officials said the SUV was not secure on the hillside, and a small fire broke out during the rescue. Crews worked quickly to stabilize the vehicle and contain the fire while continuing efforts to free the driver. The driver was trapped inside the vehicle for over an hour as rescuers worked to secure the vehicle.
Emergency crews from multiple Habersham County stations, along with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the scene. Wade Towing of Demorest assisted crews in securing the vehicle during the operation.
Authorities said a possible DUI is under investigation. No additional details have been released.
