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Police Rescue Missing Man From Cliffs Between Hoboken And Jersey City
Video shows dramatic rescue of elderly man who fell 40 feet down icy embankment
Feb. 6, 2026 at 8:07pm
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A man who fell down an icy cliff in Jersey City on Thursday was found in Hoboken on Friday morning, police said. The NJ Transit police said the man's Apple AirTag began pinging in the area of the 9th Street Light Rail station in Hoboken around 8:40 a.m. Police believe the man fell 40 feet down an icy embankment and was too injured to move. NJ Transit's Emergency Services Unit created a rope rescue system to pull the man to safety in a team effort with the Hoboken Fire Department.
Why it matters
This dramatic rescue highlights the dangers of icy conditions in the region and the importance of technology like AirTags in helping locate missing persons. The collaboration between NJ Transit police and the Hoboken Fire Department also showcases effective emergency response procedures.
The details
According to authorities, the man was first located by the Hudson County Sheriff's Department about 25 feet below street level on the Hoboken-Jersey City border. NJ Transit's Emergency Services Unit then used a rope rescue system, with their truck as an anchor, to pull the man to safety. The Hoboken Fire Department also assisted in the rescue effort.
- The man was reported missing on Thursday.
- His Apple AirTag began pinging in the Hoboken area around 8:40 a.m. on Friday.
The players
NJ Transit Police
The police force responsible for the regional transportation system, who led the rescue effort.
Hoboken Fire Department
The fire department that collaborated with NJ Transit police to execute the successful rescue operation.
Hudson County Sheriff's Department
The law enforcement agency that first located the missing man 25 feet below street level on the Hoboken-Jersey City border.
What they’re saying
“Our firefighters showed courage and professionalism, acting quickly to effectuate this rescue in the face of freezing temperatures and icy terrain. I commend the actions of Captains Louis Zampella, Gregory Ferrante, and Anthony Diaz and Firefighters Michael Casazza, John Taglieri, Ali Elgayar, and Elias Colon. Additionally, I extend my sincere gratitude to NJ Transit PD for their collaboration in this successful rescue.”
— Brian Crimmins, Hoboken Fire Chief
What’s next
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the man's fall and will likely review the rescue procedures to identify any areas for improvement.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and the value of technology like AirTags in aiding search and rescue efforts, especially in treacherous outdoor environments. The successful collaboration between multiple agencies also demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated emergency response protocols.
