RESERVE – A 74-year-old man who became lost while hiking in Catron County was safely located and reunited with his family thanks to the efforts of volunteer Search and Rescue teams from across New Mexico.
According to New Mexico State Police, the man sent a text message to family members on June 15 stating that he had become lost and had been separated from his truck for approximately 40 hours. He could only describe the vehicle’s location as being near a campsite with a large ponderosa pine tree along a state highway.
A large search effort was immediately launched involving volunteer teams from Mesilla Valley, Doña Ana County, Socorro, Cibola, Grant County, Albuquerque Mountain Rescue Council, and Catron County Search and Rescue. Support was also provided by Catron County Dispatch and the Catron County Sheriff’s Office.
Twenty-eight volunteer search and rescue members participated in the operation, using thermal drones, utility vehicles, a scent-tracking dog, and extensive ground searches to locate the missing hiker. With no air support available, crews carefully searched the rugged terrain for clues.
During the search, volunteers discovered an arrow drawn on the ground that helped lead rescuers to the lost man. He was located, evaluated by medical personnel, and later reunited with his family.
New Mexico State Police praised the dedication of Search and Rescue volunteers, noting that they receive no pay for their service while routinely spending long hours in difficult and sometimes dangerous conditions to help people in need.
State Police thanked all Search and Rescue volunteers across New Mexico for their commitment, expertise, and willingness to answer the call when lives are at stake.
By: John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications LLC – john@Bravomic.com
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