Hiker Rescued from South Moat Trail in Albany After Severe Cramps

September 26, 2025

By: Scanner Alerts Media Group

A 74-year-old Massachusetts hiker was carried out from the South Moat Trail in Albany on Friday evening after developing severe cramps more than two miles from the trailhead.

According to the release, Richard Crooks, 74, of Sandwich, MA, was descending South Moat Mountain with a friend shortly before 4:00 p.m. when he experienced severe cramps in his legs and arms. After nearly an hour of attempted rehydration without improvement, his partner called 911. A Conservation Officer, a good Samaritan hiker, and members of Lakes Region Search and Rescue responded, placed Crooks in a litter, and carried him to the trailhead shortly after 9:00 p.m. He was transported by ambulance to Memorial Hospital in North Conway for treatment.

The release notes that Lakes Region Search and Rescue is a volunteer organization supported by donations via the New Hampshire Outdoor Council (www.nhoutdoorcouncil.org). Outdoor enthusiasts are also encouraged to purchase a Hike Safe card (www.wildnh.com/safe), with safe hiking tips and essential gear information available at hikesafe.com.

Credit: New Hampshire Fish and Game