Search and Rescue Deputies Locate Lost Hunter Southwest of Cheney
Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Deputies located a lost hunter on the Columbia Plateau Trail southwest of Cheney. The adult male was cold, tired, and declined medics but was relieved to be contacted by Deputies.
On November 14, 2023, at approximately 5:20 pm, Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the report of a lost hunter on the Columbia Plateau Trail. The caller stated he had been walking for eight hours, became disoriented in the darkness/fog, and was unsure which direction to go.
Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) operators were able to get a general location for the caller but his cell phone showed it had less than 5% power remaining.
Search and Rescue Deputies were notified of the situation, while Patrol Deputies responded to the area.
When Patrol Deputies arrived, they began to search for the male, but they were unsuccessful due to downed trees and limited access to the trail.
Search and Rescue Deputies arrived with ATVs and began to search, eventually locating the male on the trail to the south and east of the S. Mullinix Road and S. Harmony Road intersection.
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Please remember: If you’re heading out for an adventure in the backcountry, be prepared and plan for the unexpected, even if your outing is only for a few hours. Bring more than enough food and water and be dressed appropriately, including extra items to be prepared for an extended stay and any weather.
Bring needed equipment, such as a working and charged GPS, a compass, matches, a flashlight, and even a Recco reflector or a satellite messenger such as the Garmin inReach. Do NOT rely on your cell phone as it may not work due to a lack of signal, or it can quickly drain a charge as it continuously searches for a network.
Sharing your plan with a family member or friend is also very important. Let them know when you’re leaving, the exact route or trail you plan to take, how many people are with you (going alone is not recommended), what vehicle you’re driving, where you plan to park, and when you expect to be back. Also, inform them to report it immediately if you do not contact them by a designated time.
We live and recreate in a beautiful area with several opportunities to hike, ski, snowmobile, hunt, fish, bike, climb, and many other fun activities, but always remember to be prepared for anything, plan for the unexpected, and if an emergency occurs or you become lost, be able to help rescuers find you.