Hiker, 2 dogs get stuck on steep ledge in Deukmejian Park

Emergency responders are trying to figure out how to rescue two dogs trapped on a steep incline in Deukmejian Wilderness Park after having already helped a hiker who became entangled in their leashes and toppled over the side.

The hiker, identified as Bill Smith, 58, was reportedly hiking on the Rim of the Valley trail with his 2-year-old Labrador when they met female hiker and her dog coming around a bend.

[This post has been updated, see below for details.]

The two dogs became excited and Smith got entangled in their leashes, according to his wife, Jan.

That’s when the trio toppled over the edge of the trail on incline so steep, they became stuck, Jan Smith said.

The other hiker called authorities at 1:56 p.m., prompting the ongoing rescue effort, fire officials said.

Two Los Angeles County sheriff’s rescue airships and one Glendale police helicopter are at the site, having lowered personnel down to assist Bill Smith down the trail. They have yet to figure out how to rescue the two dogs.

Jan Smith said her husband wa an experienced hiker in and good shape.

[UPDATE: 3:20 p.m.: Glendale Fire Battallion Chief Greg Fish said Bill Smith and his dog were unharmed and in the process of coming down the hill. The other dog, he said, remains unaccounted for.]

-- Megan O’Neil and Jason Wells, Times Community News

Twitter: @megankoneil @JasonBretWells