Wanted man arrested after being rescued from BC wildfire

A wanted man has been taken into custody after being rescued from the scene of a wildfire in southwestern British Columbia.

Cayden Blackwell, 27, had multiple warrants out for his arrest.

According to CTV News, Blackwell was standing on a cliff near Hope, where the Silver Creek fire was burning. Emergency crews heard his cries for help and successfully transported him to safety via helicopter.

Upon landing, he was promptly arrested and handcuffed.

"We've never gone from the subject of a rescue to being locked away in handcuffs within two minutes of him arriving on the ground," Valley Helicopters president Brad Fandrich told the outlet. "That's a first for sure."

In August, Blackwell was charged with driving while prohibited, resisting arrest, and assaulting a peace officer with a weapon, then in February, additional charges of driving while prohibited, dangerous operation of a conveyance, and possession of stolen property were filed.

While he pleaded guilty to driving without a licence in 2024, he has not been tried for the aforementioned charges.

As for the fire, it is currently "being held" at 0.8 acres. According to the BC Wildfire Service, it was likely caused by humans. No restrictions have been placed on the area.