Story perspectives

Tragic Search Ends: Missing Hunters Found Deceased in Colorado

9/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

Andrew Porter, 25, from Asheville, NC, and Ian Stasko, 25, from Salt Lake City, UT, went missing while elk hunting in Colorado's Rio Grande National Forest on September 11.
Their vehicle was located at the Rio De Los Pinos trailhead, containing camping gear, raising concerns due to severe weather.
A large-scale search operation commenced, utilizing air and ground teams, drones, and volunteers from various states.
On September 18, search teams confirmed both men were found deceased.
Families described them as experienced outdoorsmen, highlighting their resourcefulness in challenging terrain near the New Mexico border.

History

Historical Context

In 1996, the deaths of three hikers in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park led to stricter safety regulations, as the National Park Service reported over 200 search and rescue missions that year. The recent disappearance of seasoned outdoorsmen Andrew Porter and Ian Stasko underscores ongoing concerns about wilderness safety, highlighting the need for improved preparedness among adventurers.

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Story summary

Andrew Porter, 25, from Asheville, NC, and Ian Stasko, 25, from Salt Lake City, UT, went missing while elk hunting in Colorado's Rio Grande National Forest on September 11.
Their vehicle was located at the Rio De Los Pinos trailhead, containing camping gear, raising concerns due to severe weather.
A large-scale search operation commenced, utilizing air and ground teams, drones, and volunteers from various states.
On September 18, search teams confirmed both men were found deceased.
Families described them as experienced outdoorsmen, highlighting their resourcefulness in challenging terrain near the New Mexico border.

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