83-Year-Old Hiker Rescued After Overnight Search Near Grand Canyon

An 83-year-old man has been safely rescued after spending a night lost in a remote area near the Grand Canyon. Gerald Guinn, from Utah, was hiking with another individual on July 21 when they became separated. The pair were exploring a secluded location on the edge of the Kaibab National Forest when they split up to search for a historic object.

Guinn never reunited with his companion, who searched for several hours before requesting assistance. The Kane County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue team initiated an overnight search, deploying drones and search dogs, but were initially unsuccessful. The following morning, the Grand Canyon National Park Service took over, expanding the search with a helicopter and ground teams. The Kane County team rejoined the effort later that day.

In the early afternoon, a cell phone ping provided a general location for Guinn, directing the search efforts eastward. An NPS helicopter eventually spotted Guinn, who was able to signal the pilot. Due to the difficult terrain, the helicopter could not land, so a Kane County search and rescue team was dispatched. They found Guinn to be "in good spirits, just cold, and non-ambulatory." The team provided him with liquids and warm clothing before transporting him back to the road, where he was examined by emergency medical services and released. The entire operation concluded about a day and a half after Guinn began his hike.

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in good spirits, just cold, and non-ambulatory.