Oscar-winning animator Glen Keane was airlifted off an Arizona mountain on Wednesday following a sudden medical emergency during a hike. The 72-year-old, known for his work on Disney classics like Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid, was hiking with his grandchildren when he experienced difficulty.
Keane alerted others that he needed help, prompting a helicopter dispatch to the mountain's summit. He was hoisted by rope and transported to a safe landing zone. He told 12 News that he felt “blessed” by the firefighters’ actions during the perilous situation.
Phoenix Fire Captain Todd Keller reported that the incident began around 8 a.m. with reports of a hiker experiencing dizziness. Keane recounted feeling a sense of gratitude as he was being lifted, reflecting on childhood memories of climbing in the area. He described the rescue location as being "very much just like a razor's edge up there."
Keller advised hikers to exercise caution, especially during hot weather. "You need to do a gut check and say, 'Hey listen, is it really smart for me to be out on this trail when it's 93 degrees at seven in the morning?'" he stated, emphasizing that such conditions endanger not only the hikers but also first responders. He also noted the significant temperature fluctuations that can occur throughout the day.
Keane, who received an Academy Award in 2018 for Best Animated Short Film for "Dear Basketball" with the late Kobe Bryant, declined medical treatment after the rescue.
The Phoenix Fire Department shared a video of the rescue on Facebook, highlighting the complex technical hoist operation and the members' training. The post concluded with a reminder for hikers to prepare adequately for their excursions.
Reflecting on the experience, Keane shared a changed perspective, advising families to be aware of their surroundings and not assume conditions remain the same as they were in the past. "Things change," he said.