Search and Rescue Efforts Conclude with Discovery of Missing Elk Hunters in Colorado

On September 18, 2025, search and rescue teams in Colorado found the bodies of two missing elk hunters, Andrew Porter, 25, from Asheville, North Carolina, and Ian Stasko, 25, from Salt Lake City, Utah. The men had been reported missing since September 11 while hunting in the rugged terrain of the Rio Grande National Forest, specifically in Game Management Unit 81, near the New Mexico border. Their last known communication was a location update sent by Porter to his fiancée, Bridget Murphy, via a Garmin InReach device.

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• September 11: Porter and Stasko set out for an elk hunting trip. They last communicated with family around 3 p.m. from near their vehicle at the Rio de los Pinos trailhead.

Colorado Sun

• September 12: A confirmed sighting of the men occurred at the Spruce Hole trailhead, where they mentioned seeing a bull moose.

Colorado Sun

• September 13: The Conejos County Sheriff’s Office began search operations after the men failed to check in as planned.

ABC Denver 7 KMGH

• September 18: Their bodies were discovered by search teams.

Denver Post

The search for Porter and Stasko involved multiple agencies, including the Conejos County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and volunteer groups from various states, including Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. The operation utilized ground teams, dog units, drones, and air support, with over 50 search teams deployed. The search area was prioritized based on the last known locations of the men and included rugged terrains that posed challenges due to inclement weather.

Intensive efforts from multiple groups continue search for two missing hunters

Bridget Murphy expressed her heartbreak over the loss, stating, “It is with a broken heart and through tears that I give you this update.” She had been actively involved in the search efforts and had set up a GoFundMe page to support the search, which raised over $78,000. The Conejos County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the discovery of the bodies but did not disclose details regarding the circumstances of their deaths.

Denver Post

While the search efforts were extensive, some community members raised concerns about the adequacy of resources and the speed of the response. Murphy noted the need for more experienced volunteers and resources, emphasizing, “We need more help and we need it now.”

Daily Mail

• “Andrew Porter and Ian Stasko have both been found deceased. Their bodies were discovered earlier today by Colorado Search and Rescue. I will provide another update tomorrow. Please keep Andrew’s and Ian‘s families in your thoughts and prayers.” — Lynne Runkle, Aunt of Andrew Porter

Colorado Sun

• “We know they’re very strong and capable guys. We just keep praying.” — Bridget Murphy, Fiancée of Andrew Porter

Denver Post

• “They’re not some random people who chose this area without thought. They’ve been looking at this area for six months before coming here. They’re strong and capable, but we need the resources and they deserve them.” — Bridget Murphy

WCSC - Charleston News

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Porter and Stasko is ongoing. The families are seeking closure and have expressed gratitude for the community's support during the search efforts. Further updates are expected as authorities continue to gather information.

Daily Mail