Man issued federal summons after attempting to rappel dam

Traffic came to a halt across Table Rock Dam on Sunday afternoon as first responders were called in to the report a man was stranded on the Taneycomo side of Table Rock Lake Dam. 

Rescue crews set up for a technical rescue of a man stranded in a failed rappelling attempt of the Table Rock Dam. (Photo courtesy of Branson MO Fire – Rescue)

Branson MO Fire - Rescue reported they responded to a call at approximately 2 p.m. on Oct. 11, for a technical rescue at Table Rock Dam after a person encountered complications trying to rappel down the Taneycomo side of the dam. The man became stranded and needed rescuing. 

According to Branson Professional Firefighters Local 152, Engine 30 and Battalion 3 responded for the Technical Rescue. While the initial crews were still enroute to the incident, Engine 3, Truck 2 and Boat 1 were added to the assignment based on the information given from dispatch. Upon arrival, crews determined the man’s rope was not long enough to fully descend to ground level.  

“Crews initially evaluated access by boat on Lake Taneycomo. After determining the person could not be reached from the water, firefighters repositioned to the top of the dam and established a rope rescue system,” Branson MO Fire - Rescue said in a statement.

Rescue crews repositioned to the top of the dam, where the roadway was closed during the rescue. 

“Crews lowered a longer rope and a backup safety line, secured the person and safely lowered them to the ground,” Branson MO Fire - Rescue stated. 

The Fire Department was assisted by the Branson Police Department and the Taney County Sheriff’s Department. The rescue was a success and no injuries were reported. 

The man was not taken into custody but did receive a citation with a federal summons to appear in front of a U.S Magistrate Judge. The Table Rock Dam is operated under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.