Tragic Discovery of Two Missing Hunters in Colorado

Two young men tragically lost their lives after going missing in the rugged terrain of Colorado. Andrew Porter and Ian Stasko, both 25, were identified in a Gofundme update shared by Lynee Runkle, who noted she is Porter’s aunt. They were reported missing to the Conejos County Sheriff’s Office on September 13, although their last contact with family occurred two days earlier, on September 11.

Runkle expressed her heartbreak in a post, stating, “It’s a wounded heart and tears that gave me this update. It turns out that Andrew and Ian both died. Their bodies were found early today by Colorado Search and Rescue.”

According to deputies, both men, who hailed from Asheville, North Carolina, and Salt Lake City, Utah, respectively, went missing while elk hunting. They had satellite devices, but, as Runkle mentioned, they were “not working.”

The search took place in the San Juan Wilderness area near Trujillo Meadows Reservoir, where deputies reported locating their vehicle. It was found at the head of the Los Pinos Trail.

“Camping gear and backpacks were found in the vehicle, prompting concern from lawmakers due to heavy rain and adverse weather conditions,” noted the CCSO in a Tuesday news release.

Efforts to find the hunters involved search and rescue teams from various states and counties, with more than 54 trained personnel and volunteers participating. They used everything from all-terrain vehicles to drones, dogs, and even privately owned Black Hawk helicopters.

The commitment and coordination displayed during the search highlighted the determination and strength of the community and all the agencies involved. It’s a testament to the unwavering dedication of volunteers who came together in this time of need.