Man Rescued After Proposing To Girlfriend On Cliff Arrested For Drugs
MORRO BAY, San Luis Obispo County (CBS SF) – A 27-year-old Central California man has been arrested on drug charges after he was rescued when his proposal to his girlfriend goes totally awry.
Michael Banks of Fresno wanted to make this moment something neither he nor his girlfriend would ever forget, so he climbed the 600 foot Morro Rock early Thursday to Skype his proposal.
While she said yes, Banks became stuck on a narrow ledge 80 feet off the ground, after taking a steeper path down the rock's eastern face.
Rescue wasn't easy as a Morro Bay fire captain had to drop from a hovering helicopter, blades dangerously close to the rock. Banks was plucked from the ledge and hoisted to safety.
The fire department tweeted video of the rescue.
Video of rescue of illegal climber n Morro Rock today with CHP helicopter and MBFD Fire Captain. pic.twitter.com/zEFxW0xOIM
— Morro Bay Fire (@MorroBayFire) April 7, 2016
Banks was not injured, but officials say climbers have died over the years on that rock.
The Associated Press reported that Banks was found acting erratically Thursday afternoon. Police said Banks was high on methamphetamine and was arrested and booked into jail.
The newly-engaged man was also cited for misdemeanor trespassing and will be billed for the cost of the helicopter rescue.