A Kentucky doctor has gone missing after leaving a Norwegian cruise ship in Alaska for a solo hike, leading to an extensive search effort for the lost passenger.
Marit Buenafe, 62, was last heard from at approximately 3:18 p.m. on Tuesday, as reported by Alaska Troopers.
A primary care doctor at the University of Kentucky Healthcare in Lexington texted relatives around 7:30 a.m. that he was hiking Gold Ridge along the Roberts Mount Tramway, heading towards Gustinaw Peak.
Surveillance footage confirms her departure from the building at the tram’s peak shortly after sending her final text.
“We are hopeful that Marit is still alive,” said department spokesman Austin McDaniel. He shared this perspective during a conversation with the New York Times on Thursday.
Authorities have initiated a comprehensive ground and aerial search, partnering with various agencies. They’re utilizing helicopters, thermal drones, and K-9 units, but so far, they have not found any trace of her.
McDaniel noted that the search efforts are concentrated on the mountains south of downtown Juneau.
Buenafe earned her medical degree from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio and has been practicing for over 20 years, primarily focusing on family medicine at Albert B. Chandler Hospital.
The Norwegian cruise line, which began its week-long voyage from Seattle, stated that they are coordinating with local authorities regarding the situation.
“We are actively supporting local governments as needed,” a spokesperson from the cruise line mentioned. “Our care team is also providing assistance to the families of our guests, and our thoughts are with them during this challenging time.”
The timeline of the search remains uncertain, with the ship having multiple planned stops in Alaska and Canada. It’s scheduled to return to Seattle on Saturday.
The cruise line did not respond immediately due to the July 4 holiday.
