A hiker was rescued from a mountain in Colorado after being reportedly abandoned by his colleagues during an office retreat. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, found himself lost and without phone service after his teammates continued ahead without him, according to the Chaffee County Search and Rescue team.
Enduring harsh weather conditions and multiple falls, the hiker was located the following morning in a significant search operation. He was stabilized and transported to a hospital, with no updates provided on his condition. Officials indicated that this incident may lead to uncomfortable interactions in the workplace in the days ahead.
The incident occurred on Friday when a group of 15 employees from an unnamed company ascended Mt. Shavano, a peak rising 14,000 feet. Rescuers confirmed that the hiker reached the summit around 11:30 AM local time but became disoriented while descending. Colleagues reportedly advised him he was on the wrong path and encouraged him to return to the main trail.
However, a severe storm swept through the area, with high winds and freezing rain leaving him further lost and without cell phone service. Chaffee County Search and Rescue was alerted around 9:00 PM that evening, deploying two teams and a drone pilot, but they faced challenges due to inclement weather. A helicopter search was also initiated, but rescuers were unable to locate him due to his dark clothing.
On Saturday morning, additional assistance was called from neighboring agencies, leading to what officials described as a large-scale search effort. The missing hiker eventually regained some phone service and made an emergency call, enabling rescuers to find him in a gully. He reported having fallen at least 20 times and was unable to rise afterward.
The rescue operation involved technical rope techniques and showcased impressive cooperation among the teams involved. The hiker’s health status remains unclear after being taken for medical evaluation. Search officials have emphasized the importance of hiking with a partner, wearing bright clothing, and carrying essential supplies. They noted, “This hiker was fortunate to regain cell service when he did and had the presence of mind to call for help.”
