Local

Charlotte man rescued from Irish castle: 'I am ever so grateful'

CORK, Ireland — A Charlotte-area man was airlifted from Blarney Castle in Ireland after going into cardiac arrest.

The Irish Examiner reports 59-year-old David Motte was on vacation with his wife and touring the historic structure when he collapsed.

An Irish Coast Guard helicopter flew Motte from the top of the castle to a nearby hospital.

The Irish newspaper posted video of the dramatic rescue.

From hospital, Motte thanks his rescuers.

Brilliant work by Blarney Castle staff, our own Jeremy Downey, and our hard working paramedics, coastguard and fire brigade ❤️

Posted by Blarney Community First Responders on Monday, April 23, 2018

“I probably shouldn’t be here right now, but the fact that I am is testimony to the great work those people did on Friday,” he said. “The fact that everyone was so prepared... I am ever so grateful. I owe my life to them.”

Coast Guard ground Crew's, Helicopter Rescue 115, Fire service and NAS attend an incident at Blarney Castle today

Posted by Crosshaven Coast Guard on Friday, April 20, 2018

It's a wonderful day when a man become seriously ill, yet leaves the village alive thanks to the staff at Blarney Castle...

Posted by Blarney Community First Responders on Friday, April 20, 2018