Home / Disasters and Accidents / Elderly Hiker Rescued After Overnight Canyon Search
Elderly Hiker Rescued After Overnight Canyon Search
25 Jul
Summary
- An 83-year-old man was rescued after an all-night search in the Grand Canyon.
- The hiker, Gerald Guinn, became separated from his companion while seeking a historic object.
- Search efforts utilized drones, dogs, a helicopter, and ground teams.
An 83-year-old Utah man, Gerald Guinn, was rescued from the Grand Canyon after disappearing during a hike on July 21. Guinn and his companion were exploring a remote area near the Kaibab National Forest when they split up to find a historic object. Guinn failed to reunite with his companion, prompting a search.
The Kane County Sheriff's Office initiated an overnight search using drones and dogs, but Guinn was not found. The following day, Grand Canyon National Park Service searchers, including a helicopter and ground teams, took over the operation.
Mid-afternoon on July 22, a cell phone ping provided Guinn's general location, narrowing the search. An NPS helicopter spotted Guinn, who was able to signal the pilot. Due to the rugged terrain, a specialized ground team was dispatched.
Rescuers found Guinn cold but in good spirits, though he was unable to walk. They provided him with warm clothing and fluids. Approximately twenty individuals were involved in the complex extraction, carrying Guinn, clearing obstacles, and marking hazards.
The extensive rescue operation concluded around 1:30 a.m. on July 23, approximately 37 hours after Guinn began his hike. He was met by emergency medical services, examined, and released.
