The search for a missing hiker near Multnomah Falls ended in tragedy when a body was discovered at the base of Wiesendanger Falls, the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office reported. According to their press statement, the 49-year-old individual had been reported missing early on Wednesday, with the emergency call placed at 8:38 a.m. Shortly after, a second caller indicated they had found an unresponsive person in the same vicinity.
The response from the MCSO's specialized Green Hornets rescue team was swift, and upon arrival, they declared the hiker deceased, a finding later to assist in this investigation, the Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office was also present at the scene, they are currently working alongside the MCSO to determine the cause of death, while the family of the deceased has been notified, their privacy is being duly respected during this period of notification and bereavement.
In an effort to manage the technical aspects of the recovery operation, the MCSO Search and Rescue Program (MCSOSAR) was also engaged. This non-profit youth-dominated volunteer group dedicates their expertise to searching for lost or injured persons, whether in wild terrains or urban sprawls, and they offer their services in emergencies, including evacuations and support in law enforcement activities.
The MCSO's Public Information Officer was on scene to liaise with media, informing them of the situation and ensuring accurate representation of the events transpiring, several photos have been authorized for public release, outlets can utilize these images courtesy of the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, this team of deputies is highly skilled, prepped for rapid response situations specifically in wilderness environments and have a history of facilitating efficient rescue missions of hikers who find themselves in precarious conditions that often the beauty and treachery of Oregon's natural landscapes can disguise.
