PROSPECT, Ore. (Nov. 12, 2026) — A 60-year-old hunter who spent more than 72 hours missing in the remote wilderness near Prospect was found safe Wednesday morning, Nov. 11, after an extensive search involving law enforcement, search and rescue teams and dozens of community volunteers.
The hunter, who went missing Sunday, Nov. 8, walked out of the wilderness and was located by fellow hunters at approximately 10:26 a.m. Wednesday on the 900 Road near County Line Road outside Prospect.
Despite spending more than three days outdoors in cold temperatures, the man was reported to be in good condition. He was taken to a nearby Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue checkpoint, where he was reunited with family and friends.
Before the hunter was located, search crews conducted an extensive operation across the remote area. Search efforts included ground personnel, K-9 teams, multiple airplanes and a helicopter.
As the search continued, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office deputies and search and rescue personnel expanded the search area and requested assistance from the California Oregon Regional Search and Rescue task force.
More than 50 search and rescue personnel and approximately 80 community volunteers participated in the operation.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office thanked the search teams and volunteers who contributed their time and resources to help bring the hunter home safely.
Assisting agencies included search and rescue personnel from the Josephine County, Klamath County, Del Norte County and Siskiyou County sheriff’s offices.
Following the successful rescue, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team reminded residents to take precautions before heading into remote wilderness areas.
Officials recommend that anyone who becomes lost in the wilderness stop moving and remain in a safe location rather than continuing to wander, which can make it more difficult for rescuers to locate them.
Those with cell service should call 911, provide their location or GPS coordinates if available, and conserve their phone battery.
Officials also recommend finding shelter from wind and rain, staying warm and dry, and avoiding unnecessary physical activity that could lead to exhaustion.
Wearing bright clothing and carrying signaling equipment, such as a whistle or flashlight, can also help search crews locate someone in the wilderness.
Before heading outdoors, hunters and other recreational users are encouraged to tell someone where they are going and when they expect to return. Carrying extra food, water, warm clothing and a navigation device can also help prepare for unexpected situations.
The successful search concluded after more than three days, with the hunter returning safely to his family.
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