Missouri Deputy Attorney General Shaun Mackelprang Found After Disappearance During Wyoming Hike

A Missouri deputy attorney general, Shaun Mackelprang, was found alive nearly a week after he went missing during a solo hiking trip to Wyoming’s tallest mountain. Mackelprang, 55, was located at 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday near Scott Lake in the Wind River Range, according to the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office stated that Mackelprang was found following an extensive search effort that included ground search teams, the sheriff’s office Drone Team, and Tip Top Search and Rescue’s helicopter. He was airlifted to safety and later reunited with his family. Mackelprang began his hike on August 20 from the Green River Lakes Trailhead and aimed for Gannett Peak, which stands at 13,804 feet. He reached the summit two days later, but the circumstances of his disappearance remain unclear. His brother, Romel, reported that Mackelprang was dehydrated when found and had apparently become disoriented while descending due to bad weather conditions. The Wind River Range experienced thunderstorms and strong winds during his hike. The search for Mackelprang intensified after his rental car was discovered at the trailhead. The sheriff’s office announced the search on Tuesday and requested public assistance in locating him. They expressed gratitude to the public and backcountry users who contributed information and shared missing-person details. Mackelprang has been working towards summiting the highest point in all 50 states, with this hike being number 45. Missouri Attorney General Catherine L. Hanaway expressed relief at Mackelprang's safe return, thanking the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office and other rescue teams for their efforts.