Gillis on top of the smokestack
SALINE CO., Ill. - The Canadian man who had to be rescued from a rock formation at Garden of the Gods yesterday has been identified by authorities.
According to a press release sent out by Saline County Sheriff Keith Brown, the young man is Jachin J. Gillis, 25, of Ontario.
Brown said Saline County Central Dispatch received a 911 call at approximately 3:50 p.m. from a male who stated he had climbed up the rock formation known as the Devil’s Smokestack at the Garden of the Gods in Southeastern Saline County.
The male stated he was unable to get down and has been up on the rock formation for 20 minutes.
A rappelling team from Hardin County Emergency Management was dispatched to the scene, along with Saline County Sheriff’s Deputy, Hardin County Sheriff’s Officers and Equality Fire Department to assist with the rescue.
At 5:45 p.m. the subject was rescued from the rock formation. Saline County Ambulance checked Gillis for any injuries and exposure to the cold weather; he suffered no injury. Gillis refused medical treatment.