Two Portland men lost their lives while searching for Sasquatch in eastern Skamania County, the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office said Saturday.
The men, ages 59 and 37, were found dead in a heavily wooded area of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest after a three-day search.
The pair had been reported missing on December 25 after failing to return home as planned on December 24.
A family member alerted authorities, prompting a search effort.
Utilizing footage from a Flock safety camera, search teams located the vehicle belonging to the men off Oklahoma Road near Willard, Washington.
More than 60 volunteer search and rescue personnel, along with canine teams, drones, and ground crews, assisted in the operation.
The United States Coast Guard provided air support, using F.L.I.R. technology to scan the area despite challenging weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, heavy rain, and snow.
The men were ultimately found dead, with initial reports indicating exposure to the elements as the likely cause of death.
Officials noted the difficult terrain and weather conditions, combined with the men being ill-prepared, as contributing factors.
The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the search and rescue teams, which included personnel from Skamania County, Klickitat County, Hood River County, Wasco County, and other regional organizations.
They also extended their condolences to the families of the victims.
“This tragedy highlights the exceptional efforts of volunteers who sacrificed time during the holidays and worked tirelessly in harsh conditions to bring closure to grieving families,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
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