health
February 10, 2026
My helicopter went into freefall
Christopher Duddy was shooting a film in Hawaii when disaster struck. For 28 hours he choked on fumes near a lava lake, fighting to get to safety
TL;DR
- A helicopter crash near Hawaii's Kīlauea volcano during a film shoot left Christopher Duddy and others stranded for 28 hours.
- The survivors endured toxic fumes, extreme heat, and a perilous climb up a 300-ft cliff face while awaiting rescue.
- Rescue efforts were hampered by severe weather and the dangerous terrain, leading to a prolonged ordeal.
- Duddy eventually escaped by climbing out of the volcano and later found his way to a rescue camp.
- The accident had significant physical and psychological impacts on Duddy, including fear of flying, but also led to a shift in his perspective and career growth.
- Duddy returned to Hawaii years later to film and reflected positively on the island despite the traumatic experience.
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