Missouri Deputy Attorney General Shaun Mackelprang, 55, was found alive on Wednesday, August 27, 2026, nearly six days after he went missing during a solo hiking trip in Wyoming's Wind River Range. He was located near Scott Lake in western Wyoming.
The Sublette County Sheriff’s Office, along with ground search teams, the sheriff’s office drone team, and Tip Top Search and Rescue’s helicopter, were involved in the extensive search effort. Mackelprang was airlifted to safety and reunited with his family.
Mackelprang began his hike on August 20 from the Green River Lakes Trailhead, with Gannett Peak, Wyoming's highest mountain at 13,804 feet, as his destination. He reportedly reached the summit two days later. His family has stated they do not know exactly what transpired during his descent, but his brother, Romel, indicated that Mackelprang was dehydrated and apparently disoriented during the descent from the summit amid challenging weather conditions. The Wind River Range experienced thunderstorms and strong winds during the period of his trek.
The search for Mackelprang intensified after his rental car was discovered at the trailhead. The sheriff’s office had announced the search on Tuesday and appealed to the public for any information that could aid in locating him. The office expressed gratitude to the public, backcountry users, and search and rescue teams for their assistance.
This hike was part of Mackelprang's ongoing effort to reach the highest point in all 50 U.S. states, with Gannett Peak being his 45th summit. Missouri Attorney General Catherine L. Hanaway shared her relief at his safe recovery, thanking the various agencies and volunteers involved in the search and rescue operation. Mackelprang has been with the Missouri Attorney General's Office since May 2021.