Trapped tourists wade out of cave, official says

People exit Hidden River Cave after officials said over a dozen people who exploring the cave were trapped by rising water Thursday, May 26, 2016, in Horse Cave, Ky.
People exit Hidden River Cave after officials said over a dozen people who exploring the cave were trapped by rising water Thursday, May 26, 2016, in Horse Cave, Ky.

5:15 P.M. UPDATE

Authorities say all 19 people who were trapped in a Kentucky cave have waded through neck-deep water to get out.

Hart County Emergency Management Director Kerry McDaniel said the group of Clemson University students walked out of the cave without assistance Thursday after being trapped by rising water.

McDaniel said there is only one way in and out of the Hidden River Cave in south-central Kentucky.

EARLIER:

HORSE CAVE, Ky. — Authorities say rising water from heavy rains has trapped 19 people in a Kentucky cave.

Horse Cave Fire Chief Donnie Parker said Thursday that two tour groups are trapped in Hidden River Cave in south-central Kentucky.

Parker said two local police officers who tried to rescue the tourists are among those still inside. He said the tour groups have been in the cave for several hours.

He said authorities have not been in communication with the trapped people and are unsure where they are in the cave. Parker said four people were able to escape.

He said a dive team and other rescue groups are at the scene.

Check back with Arkansas Online for updates on this developing story.

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