Limited Clues Identified in Missing Hiker Search

Limited clues were identified yesterday in the continuing search for missing hiker Jakson Kreiser. Partial boot tracks were found that are very similar to the boots believed to be worn by Kreiser and information was received by a hiker who was in the area over the weekend.

One of the twelve search teams that included certified trackers with the North Valley Search and Rescue Team and a Glacier National Park employee identified partial tracks that match the sole pattern of boots believed to be worn by Kreiser. The tracks were located near Mary Baker Lake in the Floral Park area. This area was previously identified and has been part of the search area. Search efforts will continue in this area.

The park received a call from a hiker who was on the Hidden Lake Trail on Saturday, July 28. The hiker provided credible information, combined with other information gathered, that helps establish timing and location of Kreiser on Saturday morning.

Incident Commander Scott Emmerich said, "The clues identified yesterday are valuable in helping narrow our focus for the search efforts, and they help to identify the areas of highest probability of finding Mr. Kreiser." Emmerich said that the park and the many partners in the search incident are committed to do all they can to find Kreiser.

Several volunteers of North Valley Search and Rescue assisting with the search operation are trained and certified trackers. They assist in looking for tracks and evidence that may help in an investigation or search incident. The US Border Patrol also has trained trackers, as well as specialized canine search teams, assisting with the incident. Other members of local search and rescue teams of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office are supporting the incident as well.

Search efforts will continue in Glacier National Park for the missing 19-year old hiker. Ground and aerial searches have been conducted since Sunday, July 29, with several crews staying overnight in the backcountry.

The park is using forward looking infrared technology (FLIR). This technology, available through the Flathead County Sheriff's Office, uses thermal imaging cameras that detect heat sources. It is being used in early morning operations before the rocks and vegetation warm.

The search area is focused in the area between Hidden Lake and Avalanche Lake. Kreiser's vehicle was located in the Logan Pass Visitor Center Parking Lot and it is believed that Kreiser was attempting a day hike from Logan Pass to Avalanche Lake. His intended route is in some treacherous country filled with rock cliffs, water falls, wet and slippery rocks and boulders, and dense vegetation. The descent is more than 4,000 feet in steep conditions.

Kreiser was reported missing when he failed to return following a day hike on Saturday, July 28. He is a seasonal employee with Glacier Park, Inc. at Lake McDonald Lodge. A park incident management team has been organized and is managing the incident. Approximately 50 people are dedicated to the incident.

Kreiser is from Michigan. This is his first year working in the area. He is 6 feet 2 inches tall with black, short and curly hair, and a black beard. It is believed he is wearing a yellow sweatshirt and grey colored khaki pants, and carrying a grey and yellow backpack.

Anyone that may have been in the Logan Pass, Hidden Lake, Floral Park or Avalanche Lake areas over the weekend and may have seen Kreiser, is encouraged to contact park dispatch at 406-888-7800.


Jeff
Hikes in Glacier National Park