Oregon men die from exposure in a forest after they went out to look for Sasquatch

Key Takeaways:

• Two Oregon men died from exposure in Washington’s Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
• They were searching for Sasquatch when they went missing on Christmas Eve.
• Authorities cite adverse weather and lack of preparedness as causes of death.
• A large-scale search involved 60 volunteers, canines, drones, and the Coast Guard.
• The men’s vehicle was located using camera recordings near Willard.

A Christmas Eve Quest Turns Fatal

Two Oregon men were found dead in Washington state’s Gifford Pinchot National Forest after failing to return from a Christmas Eve expedition to search for Sasquatch, authorities reported on Saturday.

The Men’s Journey

The 59-year-old and 37-year-old adventurers set out on December 24, eager to explore the dense forests about 150 miles northeast of Portland in hopes of encountering the legendary Sasquatch. When they did not return home, a family member reported them missing around 1 a.m. on Christmas Day.

Search and Rescue Efforts

An extensive search operation was launched, mobilizing community resources and technology. “Sixty volunteer search-and-rescue personnel helped in the three-day search, including canine, drone and ground teams,” according to the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office. The United States Coast Guard joined the efforts, deploying infrared technology from the air to scan the heavily wooded terrain.

Discovery and Cause of Death

Authorities utilized camera recordings to locate the men’s vehicle off Oklahoma Road near Willard, situated on the southern border of the national forest. The men’s bodies were found nearby in the dense wilderness. The Sheriff’s Office conveyed that “the 59-year-old and 37-year-old appear to have died from exposure.” The combination of adverse weather conditions and the men’s lack of preparedness led officials to this conclusion.

Sasquatch Lore in the Pacific Northwest

Sasquatch, also known as Bigfoot, is a mythical creature that some believe roams the remote forests of North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. The legend has long captivated the imagination, inspiring enthusiasts to venture into the wilderness in search of evidence of its existence.

A Cautionary Tale

The tragic outcome of this Christmas Eve journey underscores the inherent dangers of wilderness exploration without adequate preparation, especially during severe weather conditions. Authorities emphasize the importance of proper equipment, planning, and awareness of environmental risks when embarking on such endeavors.