Shaun Mackelprang, a 55-year-old deputy attorney general from Missouri, was found alive and disoriented near Scott Lake in Wyoming’s Wind River Range on Wednesday morning, six days after he vanished during a solo hike. Rescuers located him using a combination of ground crews, drones, and a helicopter, and he was airlifted to a hospital for evaluation.
Mackelprang, who had set out to summit Gannett Peak—Wyoming’s highest point at 13,804 feet—was reported missing on August 20 after failing to return from the Green River Lakes Trailhead. His vehicle was discovered at the trailhead, prompting a multi-day search involving the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office, Tip Top Search and Rescue, and Wyoming State agencies.
Rescue details and condition
Rescuers found Mackelprang dehydrated and disoriented near Scott Lake, a remote area deep within the Wind River Range. His brother, Romel Mackelprang, told Cowboy State Daily that rescuers described his condition as stable but requiring medical attention. Romel added that Shaun had signed the summit register at Gannett Peak, suggesting his difficulties began during his descent.
The search effort included drone surveillance, ground teams, and a rescue helicopter, which located him around 9:45 a.m. local time. Mackelprang was then flown to a nearby medical facility for further evaluation. The Sublette County Sheriff’s Office confirmed his rescue and thanked public volunteers, backcountry users, and search teams for their contributions.
Official responses and family reaction
Missouri Attorney General Catherine L. Hanaway issued a statement expressing gratitude for the rescue efforts. “Our office is beyond grateful for everyone’s prayers and the steadfast work of the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office and drone team, Tip Top Search and Rescue’s volunteers and helicopter crew, and Wyoming State leaders,” she said.
Romel Mackelprang told reporters he planned to confront his brother about hiking alone in such treacherous terrain once he recovered. “I'm going to kick him in the butt when I get back with him,” Romel said. “You can’t hike these damn things anymore alone.” He also noted that the family had not been immediately alarmed by his delayed return, as thunderstorms had been forecasted in the region.
Background on the hike and search timeline
Mackelprang, who had been working toward climbing the highest peaks in all 50 U.S. states, had previously completed 44 summits before attempting Gannett Peak. The Green River Lakes Trailhead is a remote and challenging route within the Bridger-Teton National Forest, known for its rugged terrain and high elevation.
The search began after Mackelprang was reported missing on August 23, when his sister, Sheila Mackelprang, contacted authorities concerned about weather conditions. By Tuesday, family members grew increasingly concerned, leading to the official mobilization of search teams. The Sublette County Sheriff’s Office coordinated efforts with Tip Top Search and Rescue, a nonprofit volunteer group, and utilized aerial support to cover the vast, inaccessible wilderness area.
No immediate explanation for the disappearance
While rescuers and family members have speculated that Mackelprang may have become disoriented during his descent, the exact circumstances of his six-day absence remain unclear. Authorities have not released additional details about his condition or the events leading to his rescue.