Official announcements from Skamania County Sheriff's Office or relevant forest management authorities

Two Portland Men Die of Exposure in Gifford Pinchot Forest During Sasquatch Search

Dec 29, 2024, 04:26 AM

Two Portland men, aged 59 and 37, were found dead in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in eastern Skamania County, Washington, after failing to return from a Sasquatch search on Christmas Eve. The Skamania County Sheriff's Office reported that the men likely died from exposure due to freezing temperatures, heavy rain, snow, and lack of preparedness. A family member reported them missing early on Christmas Day, prompting a three-day search involving over 60 volunteers, canine units, drones, and air support from the U.S. Coast Guard. The search teams located the men's vehicle off Oklahoma Road near Willard, Washington, using footage from a Flock safety camera. Search efforts included teams from Skamania County, Klickitat County, Hood River County, Wasco County, and other regional organizations. The Sheriff's Office extended condolences to the families and expressed gratitude to the volunteers who assisted during the holiday period.