A drone played a critical role in the rescue of an individual in medical distress at the Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

Corpus Christi Police Department officers were dispatched to the 2400 block of N. Oso Pkwy after receiving reports of an individual needing emergency medical assistance within the preserve. Due to the vast and difficult terrain, and the individual's unknown location, a drone operator was deployed to assist in the search.

While officers searched on foot, the drone operator used a drone to scan the area. Within minutes, the individual was located approximately .75 miles into the preserve. Officers were then directed to the location.

Officers provided life-saving measures, including applying a tourniquet, before medics from the Corpus Christi Fire Department transported the individual to a local hospital. Medical staff credited the quick location and on-scene medical aid with the individual's survival.

The Corpus Christi Police Department highlighted the invaluable role of drones in emergency response, emphasizing their ability to access hard-to-reach areas, improve response times, enhance officer safety, and assess environmental hazards.