Search Crews Find Missing Hiker Dead on Sauk Mountain

SKAGIT COUNTY, Wash. — Search and rescue crews found 78-year-old Peter Kalapaca dead in steep terrain on Sauk Mountain Friday evening after an extensive search that began when his family reported him missing Sept. 17.

The Skagit County Sheriff’s Office said ground teams, air resources, air-scent K9 units, mountain rescue personnel and partner agencies searched throughout the day and into the evening Friday.

“During the evening hours, a helicopter flight crew located Mr. Kalapaca in steep terrain that was inaccessible to ground SAR teams. Sadly, he was not moving and was deceased when found.”

Skagit County Sheriff’s Office

Helicopter Crew Locates Missing Hiker

Search and rescue crews left the mountain after the helicopter crew located Kalapaca. Officials then shifted the operation from searching to recovery.

The difficult terrain required a technical recovery operation. A helicopter from North Cascades National Park helped crews reach Kalapaca and recover his body.

The sheriff’s office said crews have completed all recovery efforts.

Sauk Mountain Trail Reopens

Officials reopened the Sauk Mountain Trail after crews completed the recovery operation.

The sheriff’s office thanked the search and rescue teams, air resources, mountain rescue personnel and partner agencies that assisted with the operation.

Kalapaca had last been seen around 12:30 p.m. Sept. 17 near the top of the Sauk Mountain Trail.

The sheriff’s office previously described Kalapaca as about 5 feet, 9 inches tall and 170 pounds. He wore a yellow shirt, yellow hat and blue jeans.

“We also extend our deepest condolences to the Kalapaca family and loved ones. While nothing can lessen the loss of a loved one, we are grateful for the extraordinary effort made by everyone involved, which allows some measure of closure for the family.”

Skagit County Sheriff’s Office

Officials have not released additional information about what caused Kalapaca’s death.

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