Missouri Deputy Attorney General Found After Disappearance in Wyoming

A Missouri deputy attorney general, Shaun Mackelprang, was located alive on Wednesday after being missing for six days in Wyoming’s Wind River Range. He had originally set out to climb Gannett Peak, the state’s highest mountain.

According to the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office, search crews found Mackelprang near Scott Lake. They had been searching extensively, both on the ground and from the air. By around 9:45 a.m., rescuers reached him and arranged for his helicopter evacuation from the remote area.

Mackelprang was reportedly dehydrated and confused when he was found, as shared by his brother, Romel Mackelprang. He noted that Shaun was trying to summit the tallest peaks across all 50 states, with Gannett Peak as number 45 on his list. It seems that he had successfully signed the summit register, indicating that his difficulties began during his descent.

Romel expressed concern about how much longer his brother could have endured in those conditions, emphasizing the challenges of survival in the wilderness. “There’s only so much you can handle,” he said, adding gratitude for everyone involved in the rescue effort.

Mackelprang began his journey from the Green River Lakes Trailhead on August 20, 2025. The search commenced after reports of his absence, and his vehicle was located at the trailhead. Teams from Tip Top Search and Rescue and the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office joined the effort, utilizing drones and helicopters in the search.

Missouri Attorney General Catherine L. Hanaway expressed relief over Mackelprang’s recovery, thanking the responders and community for their support and dedication. She highlighted the valuable assistance provided by fellow hikers and everyone who helped spread the word about his disappearance.

As of now, authorities haven’t disclosed the specifics of what transpired during the six days he was unaccounted for.